The cause of hypertension is mostly idiopathic (of an unknown nature). Although there are certainly some causes that can aggravate or worsen high blood pressure. They are Family history Excessive salt consumption (dietary sodium) Smoking or consumption of tobacco products Obesity Sedentary lifestyle Alcoholism Types of hormone therapy Family history There are also some diseases that can cause secondary hypertension Diabetes Heart disease Thyroid disease Cushing syndrome Sometimes, pregnancy too leads to hypertension among women.