It s more common in men, African Americans, the elderly, and those who drink, are overweight, or take oral contraceptives. When blood pressure is high, the heart must work harder to pump blood through the body. The extra effort may cause the heart muscle to weaken and enlarge, decreasing the heart s work capacity. High blood pressure can also damage the blood vessels, which increases the risk of having a heart attack or stroke. Keeping Control of Blood Pressure High blood pressure can sometimes be controlled with weight loss, proper diet, and regular exercise.
Doctors say our biological clock can influence blood pressure.
Normally, blood pressure fluctuates throughout the day. When we are less active or sleeping, blood pressure normally goes down. But when we wake up in the morning, blood pressure tends to be slightly higher. Researchers who study body clocks say people who have normal or mildly elevated blood pressure during the day may have an increased risk of a heart attack or stroke if blood pressure peaks to dangerous levels in the morning. Patients at risk for problems from high blood pressure can wear special monitoring equipment.