Morning hypertension is characterized by the average numbers for morning blood pressure readings, usually measured up to two hours after awakening. Although blood pressure fluctuates during the day, the lowest readings typically occur when a person is asleep, according to MayoClinic.com. However, blood pressure levels tend to increase upon rising in the morning. Several lifestyle factors and medical conditions can cause increases in morning hypertension readings. Controlling these risk factors can help decrease blood pressure in the morning hours.
Sleep Apnea
Sleep apnea describes a medical condition that includes pauses in respiration during the night and heavy snoring. This condition is most common in overweight individuals. According to a study conducted by the Johns Hopkins School of Public Health, a link exists between increased blood pressure and sleep apnea. The study also indicated that individuals who experience an increased amount of breathing pauses while asleep are at risk for developing high blood pressure, particularly during the morning hours.
Medications
According to MayoClinic.com, some prescription medications for certain conditions or diseases can cause temporary increases in blood pressure. Medications taken early in the morning can increase blood pressure upon consumption and decrease in the evening as the medications wears off. In addition, medications taken at night for hypertension or other conditions may wear off by the morning hours, leading to high blood pressure levels. Corticosteroids, typically used to treat autoimmune diseases, asthma, severe allergies and skin problems, are known to increase blood pressure in some individuals. Decongestants, such as those containing pseudoephedrine, can also lead to temporary increases in hypertension levels.
Tobacco and Caffeine Use
Caffeine and tobacco use can increase blood pressure levels, according to MayoClinic.com. Nicotine, an ingredient in tobacco, causes blood vessels to constrict, which increases blood pressure because the substance forces the heart to work harder while pumping blood. The American Academy of Family Physicians states that stopping tobacco use decreases the chances of developing high blood pressure. The consumption of caffeine can also cause increases in blood pressure as it causes the heart to perform normal functions more vigorously. Reducing caffeine and tobacco use can prevent temporary increases in hypertension levels.
References
- MayoClinic: High blood pressure (hypertension)
- Johns Hopkins School of Public Health: High Blood Pressure Linked to Sleep Apnea
- "U.S. News & World Report": Click here to find out more! Night Shift Work Hard on the Heart
- American Heart Association Journals: Hypertension
- Omron Healthcare: Morning Hypertension
