Apr 29 2024 17 mins
Episode 07 - The Truth About Blood Pressure and Kidney Health - The Crystal Clear Kidneys Podcast - Exploring Blood Pressure Changes with Age and Other Factors
In this episode, Dr. Paul examines the reasons behind fluctuations in blood pressure as people age, as well as the various conditions related to sex, lifestyle, and genetics that can lead to blood pressure complications regardless of a person's age.
Age-Related Blood Pressure Changes
Blood pressure tends to increase with advancing age due to stiffening of blood vessels and other physiological changes
Systolic blood pressure (the top number) often rises steadily with age, while diastolic blood pressure (the bottom number) may remain stable or even decrease in older adults
This age-related rise in blood pressure, particularly systolic hypertension, is a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease in the elderly Factors Influencing Blood Pressure Across Age Groups
Sex: Women tend to have lower blood pressure than men until menopause, after which the risk of hypertension increases
Lifestyle: Factors like diet, exercise, and stress management can impact blood pressure in people of all ages
Genetics: Certain genetic variants are associated with a higher risk of developing hypertension, regardless of age
Conditions Affecting Blood Pressure
Hypertension: Uncontrolled high blood pressure is a leading cause of heart attack, stroke, and other serious health problems in both younger and older adults
Orthostatic hypotension: A sudden drop in blood pressure when standing up, more common in the elderly, can increase the risk of falls and other complications
Secondary hypertension: Underlying medical conditions like kidney disease, thyroid disorders, or sleep apnea can cause elevated blood pressureBy understanding the complex interplay of age, sex, lifestyle, and genetics on blood pressure, healthcare providers can better identify and manage blood pressure-related issues across all age groups.