High Blood Pressure: Could There Be an Underlying, Treatable Cause?
High Blood Pressure: Could There Be an Underlying, Treatable Cause?
High blood pressure, or hypertension, affects millions worldwide and is often labeled a chronic condition necessitating lifelong medication. However, in certain cases, hypertension may signal an underlying, treatable condition. Identifying and addressing this root cause can potentially eliminate the need for ongoing medication.
Key Signs Suggesting a Treatable Underlying Cause:
1. Onset Before Age 30 or After Age 55: Developing hypertension at these ages, especially without a family history, may indicate secondary hypertension.
2. Sudden, Severe Blood Pressure Increases: A rapid spike in blood pressure after a period of normal readings warrants further investigation.
3. Resistant Hypertension: Blood pressure that remains high despite using three or more medications may suggest an underlying issue.
4. Elevated Diastolic Pressure After Age 55: Typically, diastolic pressure decreases with age. An increase may point to conditions like hormonal imbalances or kidney disorders.
5. Episodes of Headache, Sweating, and Palpitations: These symptoms could indicate a pheochromocytoma, a rare adrenal gland tumor.
6. Kidney Function Abnormalities: Sudden changes in kidney function tests may be both a cause and effect of hypertension.
7. Discrepancies in Blood Pressure Readings: Significant differences between arms or between arms and legs can signal vascular issues.
8. Sleep Apnea Symptoms: Loud snoring and daytime fatigue may be signs of obstructive sleep apnea, a treatable cause of hypertension.
Potentially Treatable Causes Include:
• Hormonal Disorders: Conditions like primary aldosteronism or Cushing’s syndrome. 
• Kidney Diseases: Such as renal artery stenosis or polycystic kidney disease.
• Obstructive Sleep Apnea: A common and treatable sleep disorder.
• Adrenal Tumors: Like pheochromocytoma. 
• Thyroid Disorders: Both hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism can affect blood pressure.
The Takeaway:
Not all hypertension cases are lifelong sentences. If you experience any of the signs mentioned, consult your healthcare provider. Identifying and treating the underlying cause can lead to better health outcomes and may reduce or eliminate the need for
long-term medication.
Dr Jamal Dabbas
