Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) and High Blood Pressure
I have a headache, my head is about to explode, and my period is late.
How about you check your blood pressure?
What?! My blood pressure is actually high… Do you think there’s a connection?!
Yes, of course! There is a strong link between high blood pressure and Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) ๐ค
๐ Women with PCOS are more likely to have high blood pressure compared to women of the same age without the condition. PCOS is essentially an endocrine disorder affecting women of reproductive age and affects about 10-20% of women.
More than 30% of women with PCOS have high blood pressure. Women with central obesity (fat accumulation in the abdominal area), insulin resistance, and high cholesterol—these all fall under what's known as Metabolic Syndrome, which increases the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
In fact, young women with PCOS are three times more likely to develop high blood pressure compared to older women.
๐ Having uncontrolled high blood pressure over time weakens the heart muscles and poses long-term risks. It can damage blood vessels and organs, cause vision problems, kidney damage, and may even lead to heart attacks or strokes.
๐ So what causes high blood pressure?
Too much salt in food
Smoking
Lack of physical activity (including housework or exercise)
Weight gain
Aging
Stress
Family history
Chronic depression
Other medical conditions such as high cholesterol, insulin resistance, or type 2 diabetes
Certain medications
We should measure our blood pressure, and if the readings are above 120/80, that’s considered high and it’s time to consult a doctor.
Prevention is better than cure, and prevention starts with living a healthy lifestyle:
Maintain a healthy weight, follow a balanced diet, and exercise regularly.
Quit smoking, lose excess weight, and reduce salt intake—or eliminate it completely. You can use healthy alternatives like Himalayan salt, but in moderation. The recommended daily amount of salt is half a teaspoon.
Eat vegetables and fruits regularly because they contain nutrients like magnesium, calcium, and potassium, which help counteract the effects of sodium in our bodies.
