Does high blood pressure speed up the growth of aneurysms?

Hypertension can accelerate the growth of aneurysms, and controlling blood pressure is a key measure to prevent and slow the development of aneurysms. Aneurysms are lesions formed by the abnormal expansion of the blood vessel wall. Hypertension can increase the pressure on the blood vessel wall, causing the aneurysm to expand faster or even rupture, which is life-threatening.

1. The mechanism of the impact of hypertension on aneurysms. Hypertension will put greater pressure on the blood vessel wall. Long-term high pressure will cause the blood vessel wall to gradually become thinner and less elastic, especially at the site of the aneurysm, where the weak area of ​​the blood vessel wall is more likely to expand. At the same time, hypertension will accelerate the process of atherosclerosis, further weaken the structure of the blood vessel wall, and increase the risk of aneurysm rupture.

2. Methods for controlling blood pressure. Drug therapy is the main means of controlling high blood pressure. Commonly used drugs include calcium channel blockers, ACE inhibitors and diuretics. Calcium channel blockers such as amlodipine can relax vascular smooth muscle and lower blood pressure; ACE inhibitors such as enalapril can reduce vasoconstriction by inhibiting angiotensin-converting enzyme; diuretics such as hydrochlorothiazide can reduce blood volume and blood pressure by promoting urine excretion. Lifestyle adjustments are also crucial. Reducing salt intake, increasing potassium-rich foods such as bananas and spinach, and maintaining moderate exercise such as walking for 30 minutes a day can all help control blood pressure.

3. Regular monitoring and follow-up. For patients who have been diagnosed with aneurysms, regular imaging examinations such as CT or MRI to monitor the size and morphological changes of aneurysms are important means to prevent rupture. At the same time, blood pressure changes should be closely monitored to ensure that blood pressure is controlled within the target range. It is usually recommended to control systolic blood pressure below 130 mmHg and diastolic blood pressure below 80 mmHg.

Hypertension is an important risk factor for aneurysm growth. Controlling blood pressure through drug therapy and lifestyle adjustments, and regularly monitoring changes in aneurysms can effectively prevent accelerated growth and rupture of aneurysms and reduce the risk of cardiovascular events.