High blood pressure affects 1.28 billion adults globally, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). This condition doesn't appear suddenly but is the result of seemingly harmless small habits that gradually put pressure on the heart and blood vessels.

Here are 10 common mistakes that can increase blood pressure:

Frequently skipping breakfast. Breakfast not only provides energy but also helps regulate blood pressure. Research indicates that skipping breakfast increases the risk of high blood pressure due to blood sugar instability and the stimulation of stress hormones.

Overusing painkillers. Using ibuprofen or similar medications for minor pains can raise blood pressure. These drugs affect kidney function, causing the body to retain sodium and fluids, contributing to increased blood pressure.

Living with constant noise. Noise from traffic, TVs, or the surrounding environment triggers stress, keeping blood vessels in a tense state, leading to increased blood pressure, according to studies.

Holding in urine for too long. The habit of holding in urine when busy puts pressure on the bladder and kidneys, creating stress for the circulatory system, increasing blood pressure over time.

Dehydration throughout the day. Mild dehydration makes the blood thicker, forcing the heart to pump harder, causing continuous stress, and raising blood pressure. Drinking water regularly helps improve this significantly.

Consuming too many pickles and rice crackers. Pickles and rice crackers contain high levels of salt, gradually accumulating sodium, becoming a silent culprit causing high blood pressure if consumed regularly.

Pickles contain high levels of salt, gradually accumulating sodium, becoming a silent culprit causing high blood pressure if consumed regularly. Photo: Bui Thuy

Pickles contain high levels of salt, gradually accumulating sodium, becoming a silent culprit causing high blood pressure if consumed regularly. Photo: Bui Thuy

Hunching over a screen. Sitting for long periods with a hunched back hinders blood circulation, forcing the body to work harder, gradually increasing blood pressure and exacerbating cardiovascular problems.

Sleeping too little or too much. Sleeping less than 6 hours or more than 9 hours disrupts the circadian rhythm, increasing stress hormones like cortisol, directly raising blood pressure.

Suppressing anger. Suppressing emotions such as anger or disappointment causes a sudden increase in blood pressure, while healthy emotional release helps maintain a more stable blood pressure level.

Relying on "healthy" snacks. Products like energy bars, flavored yogurt, or instant oatmeal often contain hidden sugar and sodium, silently contributing to increased blood pressure if eaten regularly.

My Y (Times of India)