Infections that cause high blood pressure
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Infections That Cause High Blood Pressure
High blood pressure, or hypertension, is a significant risk factor for cardiovascular diseases. While genetics, lifestyle, and environmental factors are well-known contributors, recent research highlights the role of various infections in elevating blood pressure. This article synthesizes findings from multiple studies to explore how specific infections contribute to hypertension.
Cytomegalovirus (CMV) and Hypertension
CMV Infection and Blood Pressure Increase
Cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection is prevalent globally, with seropositivity rates ranging from 60% to 99% in adults. Research indicates that CMV infection is associated with increased arterial blood pressure (ABP) and cardiovascular diseases such as atherosclerosis 1. In vivo studies using mouse models have shown that CMV infection alone can significantly elevate ABP, independent of atherosclerotic plaque formation 1. This increase in blood pressure is linked to the virus's ability to stimulate the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines like IL-6, TNF-α, and MCP-1, as well as renin and angiotensin-II (Ang II) in both mouse and human cells 1.
Mechanisms of CMV-Induced Hypertension
The persistent infection of endothelial cells (EC) by CMV appears to underpin the molecular mechanisms leading to increased blood pressure. The virus's replication and the expression of viral genes in ECs contribute to the heightened expression of renin and Ang II, which are critical regulators of blood pressure 1. These findings suggest that controlling CMV infection could be a strategy to manage hypertension and related cardiovascular conditions.
Bacterial Infections and Hypertension
Oral Bacteria and Blood Pressure
Several bacterial infections have also been linked to hypertension. Higher levels of colonization by oral bacteria such as Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans, Porphyromonas gingivalis, Tannerella forsythia, and Treponema denticola are positively associated with the presence of hypertension 2. These bacteria, commonly found below the gum line, contribute to systemic inflammation, which can elevate blood pressure.
Antibiotic Use and Blood Pressure
The use of antibiotics during pregnancy, indicative of severe bacterial infections, is associated with a slight increase in average arterial blood pressure 2. This suggests that bacterial infections requiring antibiotic treatment may have a lasting impact on blood pressure regulation.
Viral Infections and Hypertension
COVID-19 and Blood Pressure
The relationship between hypertension and COVID-19 involves endothelial dysfunction and dysregulation of the renin-angiotensin system 2. The virus's impact on endothelial cells and the subsequent inflammatory response can lead to elevated blood pressure in infected individuals.
Other Viral Infections
Other viral infections, such as those caused by the Zika virus and Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), have also been linked to hypertension. In regions with high incidences of nasopharyngeal carcinoma, hypertension is associated with a higher risk of EBV reactivation 2. Additionally, there is evidence suggesting a potential causal link between malaria and elevated blood pressure 2.
Conclusion
Infections, both viral and bacterial, play a significant role in the development and exacerbation of hypertension. CMV infection, in particular, has been shown to directly increase arterial blood pressure through mechanisms involving pro-inflammatory cytokines and the renin-angiotensin system. Oral bacteria and other viral infections like COVID-19, Zika, and EBV also contribute to elevated blood pressure through various pathways. Understanding these connections highlights the importance of managing infections to control and prevent hypertension.
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Most relevant research papers on this topic
Cytomegalovirus Infection Causes an Increase of Arterial Blood Pressure
Cytomegalovirus infection increases arterial blood pressure and is a co-factor in aortic atherosclerosis, with persistent infection of endothelial cells potentially underlining the mechanism.
In Vitro Study
Highly CitedOverview of microbes in hypertension
Higher levels of bacteria below the gum line and antibiotic use during pregnancy are associated with hypertension, while cytomegalovirus infection, coronavirus disease 2019, and gut microbiota influence blood pressure levels.
Innate Immunity in Hypertension
Innate immunity may play a significant role in chronic inflammation in hypertension, contributing to inflammation directly or by activating adaptive immune responses mediated by T lymphocytes.
Literature ReviewThe Malaria-High Blood Pressure Hypothesis: Revisited.
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Literature Review
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Probiotics may improve hypertension management by reducing LPS-induced endothelial dysfunction and vascular inflammation.
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