If you are a woman who is going through menopause, you may be wondering if high blood pressure (hypertension) is a common problem for women during this time. You are not alone in wondering about this!
In fact, many women experience high blood pressure during menopause.
This can be due to a number of factors, including the decrease in estrogen levels and changes in lifestyle habits. In this blog post, we will discuss the causes of high blood pressure during menopause as well as prevention and treatment strategies.
What is a “normal” blood pressure?
The American Heart Association (AHA) defines normal blood pressure for adults as a systolic (top number) reading of less than 120 mm Hg and a diastolic (bottom number) reading of less than 80 mm Hg.
If your readings are consistently at or above these levels, you need to speak with your Family Doctor or Cardiologist about high blood pressure.
Does menopause cause high blood pressure?
It is important to first understand that high blood pressure is not caused by menopause itself. Menopause is a natural process that all women go through as they age. However, there are certain factors that can contribute to high blood pressure during menopause.
These include:
-Decreased estrogen levels: Estrogen plays a role in regulating blood pressure by dilating the blood vessels and allowing blood to flow more easily. As estrogen levels decline during menopause, this can lead to an increase in blood pressure.
-Changes in lifestyle habits: Menopause is often accompanied by changes in lifestyle habits, such as increased stress levels, weight gain, and reduced physical activity. These factors can all contribute to an increase in blood pressure.
-Genetic factors: High blood pressure can be hereditary, so if your family has a history of hypertension, you may be more likely to experience it during menopause.
Can women develop high blood pressure before menopause?
Definitely. It is possible for women to develop high blood pressure before menopause. This is often due to the same factors that can contribute to high blood pressure during menopause, such as decreased estrogen levels, changes in lifestyle habits, and genetic factors.
If you are concerned about developing high blood pressure, it is important to speak with your Family Doctor and get a yearly full-body physical that includes a blood pressure check and bloodwork.
Strategies for prevention and treatment of high blood pressure
Now that we have a better understanding of the causes of high blood pressure during menopause, let’s discuss some strategies for prevention and treatment.
-Lifestyle changes: One of the best things you can do to prevent or treat high blood pressure is to make healthy lifestyle changes. This includes eating a healthy diet, maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly, and managing stress levels.
- Even a simple routine of walking 30 minutes a day can help lower blood pressure.
- Making sure that you get good quality sleep (and enough sleep) are also key to managing stress levels that drive blood pressure higher.
- Also, weight loss of as little as five to ten pounds can also help lower blood pressure.
-Supplements: There are also several supplements that can help to lower blood pressure, such as magnesium and omega-three fatty acids. Again, be sure to speak with your doctor before taking any supplements.
-Blood pressure medication: If lifestyle changes and supplements are not enough to control your blood pressure, your Family Doctor or Cardiologist may prescribe medication.
Can I take Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT) during menopause if I have high blood pressure?
Yes, you can take BHRT during menopause if you have high blood pressure. However, it is important to speak with your doctor first and make sure that this is the right treatment for you. Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy can help to regulate estrogen levels and reduce some of the symptoms of menopause, such as hot flashes and night sweats.
However, it is important to remember that BHRT is not a cure for high blood pressure. It is simply a treatment option that can help to alleviate some of the symptoms of menopause. If you are interested in taking BHRT, be sure to speak with your doctor about the risks and benefits.
In Conclusion
High blood pressure is a common problem during menopause, but it is important to remember that there are treatments available. If you are concerned about high blood pressure, be sure to speak with your Family Doctor or Cardiologist and get a yearly physical.
Making lifestyle changes, such as eating a healthy diet and exercising regularly, can help to prevent or treat high blood pressure.
Note: This article is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.
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