Does lupus cause high blood pressure?
Yes, lupus can significantly affect blood pressure. Up to 74% of people with systemic lupus erythematosus experience high blood pressure, making it a very common concern.
Lupus contributes to high blood pressure in several ways:
* Chronic inflammation damages blood vessels and contributes Show Full Answer
Does lupus cause high blood pressure?
Yes, lupus can significantly affect blood pressure. Up to 74% of people with systemic lupus erythematosus experience high blood pressure, making it a very common concern.
Lupus contributes to high blood pressure in several ways:
* Chronic inflammation damages blood vessels and contributes to atherosclerosis (plaque buildup in arteries)
* This makes arteries stiff or narrow, reducing blood flow and increasing pressure
* Lupus nephritis (kidney inflammation) interferes with the kidneys' ability to regulate fluid balance, leading to fluid retention and increased blood pressure
Many people notice their blood pressure rises during lupus flares. As one MyLupusTeam member shared: "Any time my body is out of whack, my blood pressure tends to rise some. The doctor said that it was my body's response to the inflammatory process."
High blood pressure is especially important to monitor because it's a major risk factor for heart disease, which is the leading cause of death in people with lupus. Managing high blood pressure with lupus:
Regular blood pressure monitoring is essential since high blood pressure often develops without noticeable symptoms. The current target for people with lupus is keeping blood pressure below 130/80 mm Hg.
Lifestyle changes can make a significant impact:
* Reduce sodium intake (most excess salt comes from processed and restaurant foods)
* Maintain a healthy body weight
* Don't smoke
* Exercise regularly
* Manage stress
Some lupus medications can affect blood pressure. However, hydroxychloroquine (Plaquenil) has actually been shown to reduce the risk of blood clots by 49%.
If you're experiencing high blood pressure, talk with your rheumatologist. They may adjust medication dosages or recommend additional strategies to help manage it, especially if you have lupus nephritis.
April 23
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