COVID is a widely used term to represent coronavirus-triggered severe/acute respiratory syndrome (in short, SARS). The first case affected by this virus was reported in Wuhan, China. This was diagnosed in 2019 – which eventually spread all over the world – and became a pandemic. It is now popularly known as COVID-19. Symptoms of this viral condition are quite characteristic; these include loss of smell and taste, being weak or tired, wheezing, panting for breath, gasping, or other such breathing problems. Can COVID cause high blood pressure? It is a key thing to know in this regard.
Symptoms of the vital condition COVID-19 are likely to show up in a matter of 2 weeks from the time of being exposed to the infection-causing microbe. However, in more than 29% (perhaps, even more) of cases caught the infection without the signs showing up in them.
Among those who did witness few of the characteristic signs of this pandemic condition – in nearly 70% of such cases (i.e., those with symptoms) only experienced milder signs of infection. In more than 12% of cases infected by COVID-19, severe symptoms such as breathing difficulties, restless, being in a state of shock, etc. were observed.
How does COVID-19 spread from one person to another?
The microbial strand that triggers COVID-19 largely affects those who reside in close proximity to an already infected individual. The strand can spread as particles through ambient air. People who inhale drops (or droplets) through their nose or the virus may come in contact with eyes or other oral parts.
The risks of an infection stand extremely high in all such exposure. It can be case-managed through physical isolation / social distancing, medical care, consumption of drugs, and also by taking plenty of rest.
But, can COVID cause high blood pressure?
Yes, studies done in this realm indicate the likelihood of hypertension / an acute increase in blood pressure. Build-up of stress – soon after getting COVID – is widely attributed as a leading cause for elevated pressure levels. If left unchecked, frequent spells of hypertension can cause heart damage or a coronary condition.
On average, systolic pressure hovered at 127 mm Hg while diastolic reading ranged above 82 mm Hg among COVID-veterans. These facts underscore a strong association between the incidence of hypertension and onset of COVID.
On the other hand, there is not much evidence to substantiate the onset of hypertension among those who had COVID vaccine shots. However, in a few people who took shots, short-term stress build-up and pains have led to a mild increase in pressure levels; medical studies indicate such spells as largely harmless.
Moreover, spells of high blood pressure can be reversed by making a few changes to your lifestyle. Apart from consuming drugs, you are advised to follow a well-regimented workout plan, eat a balanced diet and embrace a stress-free way of living.
Those who are already living with high blood pressure need to follow a few precautions to stay clear of possible infections. For instance, you are advised to avoid coming in close touch/contact with those who are already infected; wearing face masks – especially while moving in crowded locations; follow proper handwashing practices and also, maintain overall physical hygiene to avoid being infected by COVID-19.
In sum, there exists a possible association in between high blood pressure and incidence of COVID-19. Precautionary measures such as wearing masks, taking shots of vaccines, etc. are highly recommended. For more details on this, it is a good practice to talk to your treating doctor and/or pharmacist.
Disclaimer
Information provided here are only of supplementary nature. Information shared here does not substitute a qualified doctor’s advice. This website is not suggesting intake of this drug as safe or appropriate. Hence it is advised to talk to your doctor before consuming this med or any other drug.
Education: Bachelor’s in Biology from the University of California, Berkeley; Certified Health Education Specialist (CHES). Experience: 10 years as a freelance health writer and editor, contributing to blogs and magazines focused on preventive medicine and fitness.