It’s important for older adults to have their blood pressure checked regularly, as high blood pressure often has no symptoms but can still cause damage to the body over time. High blood pressure, if left untreated or uncontrolled, can lead to a number of serious health problems. It can cause damage to the arteries, making them less flexible and more prone to blockages. This can lead to heart disease, stroke, kidney disease, vision loss, and other complications. High blood pressure can also contribute to the development of aneurysms, cognitive decline, and peripheral artery disease. Therefore, it is important to monitor and manage high blood pressure to prevent these potential health risks. A healthcare provider will work with older adults to develop a plan to manage blood pressure, which may include lifestyle changes such as eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, quitting smoking, and reducing stress, as well as medication if necessary.
The American Heart Association defines normal blood pressure for adults as a systolic pressure of less than 120 mmHg and a diastolic pressure of less than 80 mmHg. Elevated blood pressure is defined as a systolic pressure of 120-129 mmHg and a diastolic pressure of less than 80 mmHg. Stage 1 hypertension is defined as a systolic pressure of 130-139 mmHg or a diastolic pressure of 80-89 mmHg, and stage 2 hypertension is defined as a systolic pressure of 140 mmHg or higher or a diastolic pressure of 90 mmHg or higher.
There are several common causes of high blood pressure, also known as hypertension, in older adults. Some of these causes include:
- Age: As we age, our blood vessels can become stiffer and less elastic, which can lead to higher blood pressure.
- Genetics: High blood pressure can run in families, so if parents or siblings have hypertension, you may be more likely to develop it as well.
- Lifestyle factors: Certain lifestyle factors can contribute to high blood pressure, such as a diet high in salt or saturated fat, being overweight or obese, smoking, and not getting enough physical activity.
- Chronic conditions: Certain chronic conditions, such as diabetes, kidney disease, and sleep apnea, can also contribute to high blood pressure.
- Stress: Chronic stress can contribute to high blood pressure by causing the body to release stress hormones that narrow blood vessels.
- Medications: Certain medications can cause high blood pressure. Medications that have been known to cause high blood pressure in adults age 75 and older include:
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): These include medications such as ibuprofen and naproxen, which are commonly used to relieve pain and inflammation. However, they can also cause fluid retention and increase blood pressure, especially when used for long periods of time.
Certain antidepressants: Some antidepressants, such as venlafaxine and duloxetine, can increase blood pressure in older adults.
Decongestants: Decongestants, such as pseudoephedrine and phenylephrine, are commonly found in over-the-counter cold and allergy medications. They can constrict blood vessels and increase blood pressure.
Steroids: Corticosteroids, such as prednisone, can cause fluid retention and increase blood pressure, especially when used for long periods of time.
Immunosuppressants: Immunosuppressant medications, such as cyclosporine and tacrolimus, are used to prevent rejection in organ transplant patients. However, they can also increase blood pressure.
It’s important for older adults to work with a healthcare provider to monitor their blood pressure regularly when taking medications and to adjust the dosage or switch to alternative medications if necessary. In some cases, lifestyle changes such as reducing salt intake, increasing physical activity, and quitting smoking may also help lower blood pressure. For more information, visit: High Blood Pressure and Older Adults | National Institute on Aging
