Can A Infection Cause A Increase In Blood Pressure Given Enough Time

Question

Originally asked by Community Member Roy

Can A Infection Cause A Increase In Blood Pressure Given Enough Time

Can an infection cause a increase in blood pressure if it goes on for a long time?

Answer

Hi Roy,

Infections do have a connection to inflammation and heart disease. Infections elevate c-reactive protein (CRP) levels, an antibody-like protein. Increased CRP levels promote atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries) and can lead to high blood pressure. It’s normal for CRP to rise temporarily when battling an infection, such as a urinary tract infection and then return to normal. It’s the chronic infections that are reason for concern.

Here are some links on blood pressure you might find helpful:

Sunshine to Lower Blood Pressure

Have High Blood Pressure? Don’t Eat These Foods

10 Things to Do This Month to Lower Your Blood Pressure

All the best,

Lisa Nelson, RD, LN
Diet to Lower High Blood Pressure Naturally

You should know Answers to your question are meant to provide general health information but should not replace medical advice you receive from a doctor. No answers should be viewed as a diagnosis or recommended treatment for a condition.

Answered by: Lisa Nelson, RD, LN