High blood pressure (hypertension) is a common health concern, but did you know that illnesses and infections can also cause temporary or even long-term spikes in blood pressure? Many people wonder, "Can an infection raise blood pressure?" The answer is yes—certain infections and illnesses can contribute to elevated blood pressure through various mechanisms. In this blog, we’ll explore the link between sickness and hypertension, the underlying causes, and how managing infections may help control blood pressure. We’ll also touch on opportunities like paid clinical trials in Illinois for those looking to contribute to medical research on hypertension and infections.  

How Infections Can Raise Blood Pressure 

When the body fights an infection, it triggers an immune response that can affect blood pressure in several ways:  

1. Inflammation and Blood Vessel Constriction

Infections cause inflammation as the immune system releases cytokines to combat pathogens. Chronic inflammation can damage blood vessels, making them less flexible and leading to higher blood pressure. Conditions like sepsis (a severe infection) can cause blood pressure to drop initially but may lead to long-term hypertension due to vascular damage.  

2. Fever and Increased Heart Rate

Fever is a common symptom of infection, and it increases the heart rate as the body works harder to fight off pathogens. A faster heart rate can temporarily raise blood pressure. While this is usually short-term, repeated infections could contribute to sustained high blood pressure over time.  

3. Stress Hormones and the Sympathetic Nervous System

Infections activate the body’s stress response, releasing hormones like adrenaline and cortisol. These hormones constrict blood vessels and increase heart rate, leading to elevated blood pressure. Chronic stress from recurrent infections may contribute to long-term hypertension.  

4. Kidney Infections and Blood Pressure Regulation

The kidneys play a crucial role in regulating blood pressure by controlling fluid balance and sodium levels. Infections like pyelonephritis (kidney infection) can impair kidney function, leading to fluid retention and higher blood pressure.  

5. Respiratory Infections and Oxygen Deprivation

Conditions like pneumonia or severe flu can reduce oxygen levels in the blood. In response, blood vessels may constrict to improve oxygen delivery, increasing blood pressure. Sleep apnea, often worsened by respiratory infections, is also linked to hypertension.  

Common Infections Linked to High Blood Pressure 

Certain infections are more likely to influence blood pressure:  

• COVID-19 – Studies show that COVID-19 can cause endothelial damage (lining of blood vessels), leading to hypertension in some patients.  

• Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs) – Severe or recurrent UTIs, especially those affecting the kidneys, can disrupt blood pressure regulation.  

• Gum Disease (Periodontitis) – Chronic oral infections have been linked to systemic inflammation and higher blood pressure.  

• HIV – Long-term HIV infection is associated with an increased risk of hypertension due to chronic inflammation and antiretroviral therapy side effects. 

Managing Blood Pressure During and After Illness 

If you’re sick and notice higher blood pressure readings, consider these steps:  

✔ Stay Hydrated – Dehydration from fever or vomiting can thicken blood, increasing pressure. Drink plenty of fluids. 

✔ Monitor Blood Pressure – Keep track of your readings, especially if you have a history of hypertension. 

✔ Rest and Recover – Avoid strenuous activity, as stress and fatigue can worsen blood pressure spikes. 

✔ Treat the Infection Promptly – Antibiotics or antivirals (when appropriate) can help resolve infections before they impact blood pressure long-term. 

✔ Follow Up with a Doctor – If high blood pressure persists after recovery, consult a healthcare provider to rule out complications.  

Can Infection Raise Blood Pressure Long-Term? 

While most infection-related blood pressure spikes are temporary, some studies suggest that chronic or severe infections may contribute to sustained hypertension. For example:  

• Persistent Inflammation – Long-term infections (like hepatitis or Lyme disease) can keep the body in a state of inflammation, damaging blood vessels over time.  

• Autoimmune Reactions – Some infections trigger autoimmune responses that affect blood pressure regulation.  

• Organ Damage – Severe infections (e.g., sepsis) can harm the kidneys, heart, or blood vessels, leading to chronic hypertension. 

The Role of Antibiotics and Medications in Blood Pressure Fluctuations 

Another factor to consider is that some medications used to treat infections can also influence blood pressure. For example:  

• Decongestants (like pseudoephedrine) – Often used for colds and sinus infections, these can constrict blood vessels and raise blood pressure.  

• NSAIDs (ibuprofen, naproxen) – While helpful for reducing fever and pain, these anti-inflammatory drugs can cause fluid retention and increased blood pressure, especially with prolonged use.  

• Certain Antibiotics – Some antibiotics, like ciprofloxacin and clarithromycin, have been linked to temporary blood pressure spikes in rare cases. 

If you have hypertension or are at risk, always check with your doctor before taking new medications during an illness.  

Post-Infection Blood Pressure Monitoring 

Even after recovering from an infection, it’s wise to keep an eye on your blood pressure. Some people experience lingering effects, such as:  

• Post-COVID Hypertension – Some studies suggest that COVID-19 survivors may have a higher risk of developing hypertension months after recovery.  

• Chronic Fatigue and Stress – Prolonged illness can lead to ongoing stress, poor sleep, and sedentary habits—all of which contribute to high blood pressure. 

If your readings remain elevated weeks after an infection, consult a healthcare provider. They may recommend lifestyle adjustments, medication, or further testing to rule out complications.  

Preventing Infection-Related Blood Pressure Spikes 

While you can’t always avoid getting sick, these strategies may help minimize blood pressure risks:  

• Boost Immunity – A balanced diet, regular exercise, and adequate sleep strengthen your immune system, reducing infection frequency.  

• Practice Good Hygiene – Washing hands, staying up-to-date on vaccines (like flu and pneumonia shots), and avoiding sick contacts can lower infection risks.  

• Manage Stress – Since stress worsens both infections and blood pressure, relaxation techniques like deep breathing or meditation may help. 

Things To Keep In Mind 

Infections and blood pressure are more connected than many realize. Whether through direct inflammation, medication side effects, or long-term vascular damage, illnesses can contribute to hypertension. If you’ve noticed blood pressure changes during or after sickness, you’re not alone—many experience this. Staying informed, monitoring your health, and seeking medical advice when needed can help manage these risks.  

For those in Illinois interested in further research, paid clinical trials in Illinois continue to explore these connections, offering opportunities to contribute to science while potentially benefiting from cutting-edge treatments. By understanding how infections affect blood pressure, we can take better control of our cardiovascular health—even when sickness strikes. 

Exploring Paid Clinical Trials in Illinois 

For those interested in advancing research on infections and hypertension, paid clinical trials in Illinois offer an opportunity to contribute to medical science while receiving compensation. These trials may investigate:  

• New treatments for infection-induced hypertension  

• The long-term effects of COVID-19 on blood pressure  

• Anti-inflammatory therapies to prevent hypertension 

If you’re in Illinois and want to participate, check reputable research centers or online databases for ongoing studies.

You may also read: The Hidden Link: How Infections May Cause High Blood Pressure

Final Thoughts 

So, can infection raise blood pressure? Absolutely. Whether through inflammation, stress hormones, or organ damage, infections can lead to temporary or even lasting increases in blood pressure. Managing infections promptly and monitoring your cardiovascular health is crucial. For those interested in furthering hypertension research, exploring paid clinical trials in Illinois could be a rewarding way to contribute to future medical breakthroughs.  

By understanding the connection between sickness and blood pressure, we can take proactive steps to protect our health—both during illness and beyond.