Menopause and High Blood Pressure: What's the Connection?

The connection between menopause and high blood pressure is quite complex since it isn't completely understood. High blood pressure does tend to happen in women as they get older, particularly above the age of 60, although it isn't out of the question that high blood pressure can develop beforehand. Whether or not there is a direct connection between menopause and high blood pressure the studies are continuing to determine if what many believe is true. Of the studies that have been conducted, it is believed that high blood pressure is linked to menopause based on the dropping estrogen levels influencing the blood vessel linings. Anything that has a negative impact on the lining of the blood vessels may cause high blood pressure. Another possible factor is that menopause causes weight gain. This weight gain can cause more stress on the heart, which makes it work harder. There is also the fact that menopause causes an increase in depression, which also increases the chances of developing high blood pressure. During menopause, the aorta, the carotid artery, and other arteries throughout the body lose elasticity. This causes the arterial wall to not be able to contract and expand with each heartbeat the way it should. This can eventually lead to heart enlargement, which can eventually lead to hypertension. It was suggested that activation of the rennin-angiotensin system increased the risk of hypertension in menopausal women, but studies have shown that the elevations in angiotensin II don't have anything to do with it. Menopausal African American women, in particular, are at a higher danger of developing high blood pressure than Caucasian or Asian women. This shows a genetic factor as well as the possible influence of menopause. It is not completely understood why African Americans have a genetic prevalence toward hypertension, but African American women are more likely to experience the symptoms of declining estrogen such as night sweats and hot flashes. The reaction to declining estrogen may be a good explanation as to why menopausal African American women are more likely to develop high blood pressure. Another explanation is that bone loss during menopause causes lead that is stored in the skeletal system to be released. This lead can lead to lead poisoning resulting in the elevation of blood pressure. It is known that prolonged exposure to lead can lead to hypertension. This fact is also true for men who have been exposed to lead and anyone else who is exposed to lead for prolonged periods of time becoming more susceptible to developing hypertension. There are many possibilities as to how menopause can be linked to hypertension. Age, estrogen levels, race, and increased lead exposure due to bone loss are all possibilities that have shown some medical evidence. It is good to follow doctor's orders and maintain a healthy diet and remain active. This will ensure a healthy life and can also make menopause more manageable. Besides, it is all about prolonging your life and living it well. MedicineNet http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=78099 Menopause Info Center http://www.menopause-black-cohosh.org/menopause-treatment/high-blood-pressure.htm