Alcohol and smoking: do they raise or lower blood pressure

Have you ever wondered why the numbers on the blood pressure monitor change from day to day? Blood pressure is not a constant value: it depends on many factors, including time of day, psychological state, and the use of various substances. Alcohol and smoking are two factors associated with the risk of hypertension — let's look at exactly how they affect blood pressure.

Alcohol and blood pressure: does it raise or lower it

With regular use, alcohol contributes to increased blood pressure. Drinking more than 14 units per week on a regular basis increases the risk of hypertension. Thus, alcohol is a risk factor for persistently elevated blood pressure.

How blood pressure is measured and what the numbers mean

Blood pressure is not constant: it fluctuates over the course of a day and from day to day, and depends on stress, coffee, tea, and medications. That is why a doctor usually does not make a diagnosis based on a single measurement: they may ask you to measure your blood pressure at home over several days, come for a follow-up appointment in a few days or weeks, or wear a portable monitor that records readings over 24 hours. During measurement, the cuff is placed on the upper arm and inflated with air to assess the pressure in the vessels. A doctor may order two or more measurements on different days to confirm the diagnosis. A blood pressure of 140/90 mmHg and above measured in a medical facility and 135/85 mmHg and above measured at home is considered high. Normal is below 120/80.

Smoking and blood pressure: does it raise or lower it

Smoking is a risk factor for hypertension. This means that people who smoke are more likely to develop persistently elevated blood pressure. High blood pressure usually does not cause symptoms, so the only way to know your numbers is to measure them. Only in rare cases can it manifest as a headache, blurred vision, or chest pain.

Why high blood pressure is dangerous and risk factors

High blood pressure is an additional burden on the blood vessels, heart, brain, kidneys, and eyes. If hypertension is not treated, it can lead to heart attack, stroke, heart and kidney failure, and vascular dementia. Both smoking and excessive alcohol consumption are among the risk factors for hypertension.

• Excessive alcohol consumption is a risk factor for hypertension.
• Smoking is a risk factor for hypertension.
• Prolonged stress is also a risk factor.

An increase in blood pressure by itself is not a reason to call an ambulance. Call 103 or 112 if sudden pain or discomfort in the chest appears that does not go away, pain radiates to the arm, neck, jaw, abdomen, or back, and also if with chest pain you are sweating, feel nauseous, dizzy, or short of breath.

When to see a doctor

If you are 40 years old or older and have not checked your blood pressure for more than 5 years, or if you think you may have high blood pressure, see a doctor. Blood pressure is checked when risk factors are present: age, family history, ethnicity (African, Caribbean, or South Asian origin), an unhealthy diet with excess salt, excess weight, smoking, alcohol, prolonged stress. A doctor may order home monitoring or 24-hour monitoring to confirm the diagnosis.

The numbers on the blood pressure monitor are a reason to discuss your habits and risks with your doctor. This material is for reference: it does not replace a doctor's consultation.

This content is for reference and does not replace a doctor's consultation. Medical disclaimer