Blood Pressure Fluctuation Causes

Your blood pressure should ideally be 120/80 mm Hg or lower in order to prevent certain medical conditions and protect the health of your circulatory system. However, your blood pressure may fluctuate throughout the day as well as over the course of a long period of time. According to the National Library of Medicine and the American Heart Association, causes of blood pressure fluctuations include lifestyle factors and certain medical conditions.

Allergies

• Developing a strong allergic reaction to a food, insect sting or medication may cause your blood pressure to suddenly fluctuate and may lead to life-threatening complications.

Chronic Diseases

• Heart disease, thyroid disorders, diabetes and adrenal gland disorders may cause you to have fluctuations in your blood pressure if the condition is not under control.

Foods

• Fluctuations of your blood pressure may result from eating foods high in sugar or salt (sodium) or that contain caffeine.

Medications

• If you take medications including diuretics, beta blockers, calcium channel blockers, ACE inhibitors, anticonvulsants, antipsychotics or antidepressants, your blood pressure may fluctuate.

Posture

• Frequent or sudden changes in your posture, such as getting up quickly from resting, can cause your blood pressure to fluctuate.

Stress

• Emotional or physical stress may cause fluctuations in your blood pressure, especially if stress is a common occurrence in your daily life.