Can Alcohol Abuse Cause High Blood Pressure?

Can Alcohol Abuse Cause High Blood Pressure?

---

Consuming alcohol can definitely cause your blood pressure to rise. If you have high blood pressure (HBP) or hypertension, it is often advised that you limit your alcohol consumption or stay clear of alcoholic beverages altogether.

Too much alcohol can cause dangerously high blood pressure for anyone. More than three drinks can increase your blood pressure for a short period of time, but frequent binge drinking often leads to long-term blood pressure issues.

Beverages containing alcohol have high calories and can contribute to unhealthy weight gain, which is a risk factor for hypertension. Additionally, alcohol can interfere with blood pressure medications, changing the medication's level in your body and causing negative effects.

In both men and women, alcohol consumption is a completely preventable cause of severe hypertension (the medical term for persistently high blood pressure). Untreated high blood pressure raises the risk of stroke and heart attack significantly.

What Does it Mean to Have High Blood Pressure?

A normal heart readily and at low pressure circulates blood throughout the body. High blood pressure causes your heart to work harder and your arteries to carry blood that is under higher strain. This puts strain on your arteries and heart, increasing your chances of having a heart attack, a stroke, or developing renal disease.

How to Lower Your Blood Pressure

To reduce your blood pressure, you should do the following:

• Avoid consuming alcohol
• Exercise every day
• Eat a nutritious diet that includes limiting your salt intake
• Consult with your doctor