What is a common cause of chronic hypertension?

Excessive weight is a well-documented common cause of chronic hypertension. When an individual carries excess body weight, it can lead to increased strain on the heart and elevate blood pressure. The mechanisms behind this include increased blood volume and resistance in blood vessels, both of which contribute to the development of hypertension. Additionally, excess adipose tissue may produce hormones and inflammatory substances that can further elevate blood pressure.

While factors such as lack of sleep, low physical activity, and high sodium intake also influence blood pressure, excessive weight represents a systemic issue that affects multiple physiological systems, making it a prominent factor in chronic hypertension. Therefore, addressing weight management is often a critical component of interventions aimed at controlling and preventing high blood pressure.