Can infection cause high blood pressure
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The Link Between Infection and High Blood Pressure
Cytomegalovirus (CMV) Infection and Hypertension
Cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection has been identified as a significant factor in increasing arterial blood pressure. Research indicates that CMV infection alone can cause a notable rise in arterial blood pressure, independent of atherosclerotic plaque formation in the aorta . This increase is associated with elevated levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines such as IL-6, TNF-α, and MCP-1, as well as increased expression of renin and angiotensin-II (Ang II) in infected individuals . These findings suggest that CMV infection can directly contribute to hypertension through inflammatory and hormonal pathways.
HIV Infection and Blood Pressure
HIV infection is another viral condition linked to elevated blood pressure. Studies have shown that HIV-infected individuals, both children and adults, exhibit higher rates of high blood pressure compared to their uninfected counterparts 24. In a cohort of HIV-infected veterans, those with prehypertensive and hypertensive blood pressure levels had a significantly increased risk of acute myocardial infarction (AMI) compared to uninfected individuals . Additionally, a narrative review of studies from Sub-Saharan Africa found mixed results, with some studies reporting lower blood pressure in treated HIV-infected patients, while others showed higher or no difference in blood pressure compared to untreated or uninfected controls . This variability suggests that factors such as antiretroviral therapy and comorbid conditions may influence blood pressure outcomes in HIV-infected populations.
Bacterial Infections and Hypertension
Bacterial infections have also been implicated in the development of hypertension. There is a positive association between higher levels of colonization by certain bacteria, such as Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans and Porphyromonas gingivalis, and the presence of hypertension . Additionally, the use of antibiotics during pregnancy, indicative of severe bacterial infections, is associated with a slight increase in average arterial blood pressure . These findings highlight the potential role of bacterial infections in contributing to elevated blood pressure through mechanisms that may involve inflammation and immune responses.
Other Viral Infections and Blood Pressure
Other viral infections, including those caused by the Zika virus, Epstein-Barr virus, and dengue virus, have also been linked to changes in blood pressure. For instance, hypertension has been associated with a higher risk of Epstein-Barr virus reactivation in regions with a high incidence of nasopharyngeal carcinoma . Similarly, an elevated prevalence of hypertension has been observed among dengue patients during their initial visit, suggesting a potential link between dengue infection and increased blood pressure .
Conclusion
Infections, whether viral or bacterial, can contribute to elevated blood pressure through various mechanisms, including inflammation, hormonal dysregulation, and immune responses. CMV and HIV infections are particularly notable for their association with increased blood pressure, while bacterial infections and other viral conditions also play a role. Understanding these links is crucial for developing strategies to manage and mitigate the impact of infections on hypertension and overall cardiovascular health.
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