What causes normal blood pressure in the morning but high blood pressure in the afternoon?
Apr 03, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Tian Hongbo
Introduction
It is possible for blood pressure to be normal in the morning but elevated in the afternoon due to either physiological or pathological causes, such as unstable blood pressure control or the influence of medications. Under normal circumstances, a person's blood pressure fluctuates dynamically throughout the day—blood pressure values tend to decrease gradually when the body is at rest, while they may increase during physical activity.
Blood pressure being normal in the morning but elevated in the afternoon could be caused by physiological factors, although pathological causes cannot be ruled out, such as unstable blood pressure control or medication-related influences.
1. Physiological Causes
Under normal circumstances, a person's blood pressure fluctuates dynamically throughout the day. When the body is at rest, blood pressure tends to be lower; during physical activity, blood pressure rises. After a night's rest, blood pressure may be normal upon waking in the morning. However, in the afternoon, increased physical activity or stress from work or study may lead to higher blood pressure readings.
2. Pathological Causes
2.1 Unstable Blood Pressure Control
For individuals with hypertension, blood pressure can vary significantly throughout the day. Some people may experience normal blood pressure in the morning but elevated levels in the afternoon.
2.2 Medication-Related Factors
In patients with hypertension, improper use of antihypertensive medications may lead to unstable blood pressure. For example, if medication is taken in the morning but not at noon, blood pressure may rise in the afternoon.
In addition, other factors such as high blood lipid levels may also contribute. It is recommended to visit a hospital for a thorough evaluation and appropriate treatment based on an accurate diagnosis.
