Quick answer
Most of the time there's no single cause. It builds up over years from a mix of genes, age and everyday habits; less often another condition or a medicine is behind it.Habits you can change
Too much salt, too little potassium, extra weight, little physical activity, alcohol, smoking or vaping, and poor sleep.
Things you can't change
Age (arteries stiffen), family history (it runs in families), race (more common in Black adults in the U.S.) and sex (more common in men before 65, in women after).
Other conditions
Sleep apnea, kidney disease, and thyroid or adrenal problems can raise blood pressure. This is more likely if it starts suddenly, very high, or at a young age.
Medicines and products
Pain relievers like ibuprofen and naproxen, decongestants like pseudoephedrine, some birth control pills, steroids, some antidepressants and stimulants can raise it. Ask your pharmacist before cold medicine.
Why it's higher in the morning
Blood pressure naturally rises in the early morning as stress hormones increase. Measure at the same times each day so you can compare.
After eating
In some older adults blood pressure dips after a meal. Measure before eating, or wait about 30 minutes.
In women
Pregnancy, some birth control pills and menopause can all change blood pressure.
Young adults
High blood pressure can start in your 20s and 30s, usually from weight, salt, alcohol, poor sleep or family history. A sudden or very high rise at a young age is worth checking for another cause.
Feeling sick, in pain or anxious
Illness, pain and anxiety can push readings up for a while. Measure again when you feel better before drawing conclusions.
Questions people also ask
Sources
- American Heart Association (Know your risk factors for high blood pressure)
- 2025 AHA/ACC High Blood Pressure Guideline
- CDC.
General information, not medical advice.