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Don't Ignore Nighttime BP: It Signals Danger
9 Dec
Summary
- Nighttime blood pressure spikes are called nocturnal hypertension.
- Stress, poor sleep, and lifestyle habits cause high night BP.
- Nighttime BP is a stronger predictor of heart and kidney issues.
A natural decline in blood pressure during sleep is vital for overall health. When blood pressure fails to dip or actually rises at night, a condition known as nocturnal hypertension, it warrants immediate medical evaluation. This phenomenon can be triggered by persistent stress, leading to continuous secretion of stress hormones that elevate blood pressure.
Compromised sleep quality, including insomnia and sleep apnea where breathing repeatedly stops, can also cause significant nighttime blood pressure surges. Lifestyle factors such as late, heavy meals, high-salt intake, excessive caffeine or alcohol consumption, and smoking in the evening are also common culprits. Even poorly timed medication can contribute to inadequate overnight coverage.
Underlying medical conditions like an overactive thyroid, kidney disorders, hormonal imbalances, obesity, or chronic nasal congestion can predispose individuals to nocturnal hypertension. Experts emphasize that nighttime blood pressure readings are more predictive of cardiovascular and kidney complications than daytime measurements, making these elevated numbers a critical health concern that should not be ignored.
