Flash Sale - 5% Off*, Code: HPBIG5
Blood pressure varies throughout the day. It can be affected by the foods you eat, how active you are, and emotional stress. High blood pressure or hypertension is a leading cause of stroke, cardiac arrest, heart conditions, blood vessel problems, and aneurysm formation.
Of those being treated for hypertension, 50% still have morning high blood pressure. So why is blood pressure higher in the morning?
When the heart pumps blood into the vessels, the pressure on the vessel walls is measured. The top number is known as systolic blood pressure. This measures the pressure that occurs when the heart is contracted. The bottom number is called diastolic blood pressure and measures the pressure in the blood vessels when the heart is at rest or relaxed.
Blood pressure can be elevated when the heart beats faster or if the blood vessels constrict or become narrowed. Those with the arterial disease may have higher blood pressure because of this narrowing.
Our body has a 24-hour sleep/wake cycle called a circadian rhythm. During periods of sleep, the blood pressure is lowest. As we near the time to wake up, hormones such as adrenaline and noradrenaline are released by the adrenal glands. This causes a boost of energy, increasing blood pressure. The effects causing high blood pressure commonly occur between the hours of 6 am to noon.
Some are given medications to control blood pressure called antihypertensives. Morning hypertension can still occur while taking medication for these reasons:
Factors that increase morning hypertension are the same factors that cause all elevations in blood pressure. Modifiable lifestyle factors include:
Lead a healthy lifestyle by:
Antihypertensive medications can be used in a variety of ways to control morning hypertension. Some may need to take medication at bedtime to control the morning spike in blood pressure. Others may need to take a lower dose twice a day, once in the morning and once at bedtime. If your blood pressure continues to be high in the morning hours, talk to your doctor before making changes to your medication regimen.
Blood pressure that is significantly elevated in the morning can be a sign that you are at a higher risk for cardiovascular disease. Monitoring morning blood pressure can help avoid or minimize the consequences along with maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Blood pressure control is vital for minimizing the risk of several cardiac conditions.
Author Profile: Christine Kijek, Registered Colorectal Nurse
Christine Kijek is a colorectal nurse at Danbury Hospital in Danbury, CT. She has a wealth of knowledge in this field as well as personal experience. HPFY is thrilled that she has been an active participant in the Ostomy Support Group. She has experience working as a coordinator for cancer patients, post-operative care, and home health care for disabled children and adults. And guess what! Christine is also the recipient of the Nurse Exemplar Award. Christine lives in Bethel, CT with her husband Ed. Her children are married and live nearby. She has 4 grandchildren and is known as GiGi. Christine enjoys riding motorcycles and spends many hours gardening. She can often be found onboard a Carnival Cruise ship lounging by the pool.
Disclaimer: All content found on our website, including images, videos, infographics, and text, was created solely for informational purposes. Our content should never be used for the purpose of diagnosis or treatment of any medical conditions. Content shared on our websites is not meant to be used as a substitute for advice from a certified medical professional. Reliance on the information provided on our website as a basis for patient treatment is solely at your own risk. We urge all our customers to always consult a physician or a certified medical professional before trying or using a new medical product.
Christine Kijek is a registered nurse with a Bachelor of Science degree in Nursing. She has completed courses for wound and ostomy specialty and has 20 years of experience. She has ...
Enteral Feeding: The What, When, and How
When traditional oral intake is not feasible, enteral feeding comes into play. It supports nutritional needs of individuals recovering from an injury or surgery. Dive into this informative article and learn what, when, why, and how of enteral feeding and ensure optimal patient care.
Using the Carpal Solution Carpal Tunnel Wrist Support
Looking for a non-invasive option to manage carpal tunnel symptoms? Experience relief from constant tingling and pain with this Carpal Solution Wrist Support. Read this article to know about the unique features and benefits of this wrist support brace designed to deal with CTS and find why it is one of the most reliable wrist braces available on the market.
Top 5 Best Reviewed Nebulizers of 2023
Need an effective and affordable nebulizer? Look no further, in this article we offer 5 of our best reviewed nebulizers that are loved by our customers. Click to read more and find the perfect nebulizer for all your respiratory needs.
10 Best Overnight Adult Diapers
Worried about nighttime leaks? Say goodbye to leakage with our ten best overnight adult diapers and wake up refreshed and dry.
Five Best Cervical Traction Devices of 2023
Neck pain can wreak havoc on your otherwise healthy life. Traction device improves your cervical health and overall well-being. Read more to find our best cervical traction devices designed to curb the stiffness and discomfort of cervical muscles.