Managing high blood pressure effectively involves more than just measuring systolic and diastolic readings. Blood tests provide invaluable insights:
- Kidney Function:
- Blood Urea Nitrogen (BUN) and Creatinine: Elevated levels may indicate impaired kidney function, a common complication or cause of high blood pressure.
- Electrolytes:
- Sodium and Potassium: Imbalances can influence blood pressure and heart function.
- Sodium levels should be monitored, as high sodium can lead to hypertension.
- Potassium helps counterbalance sodium's effects on blood pressure.
- Lipid Profile:
- Cholesterol, LDL, HDL, and Triglycerides: High cholesterol and LDL levels can contribute to atherosclerosis, increasing blood pressure.
- HDL helps remove LDL, reducing the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
- Blood Glucose and HbA1c:
- Elevated blood glucose and HbA1c can indicate diabetes, which often coexists with hypertension and increases cardiovascular risk.
- Complete Blood Count (CBC):
- Anemia or polycythemia can affect blood viscosity and pressure. Monitoring RBC count, hemoglobin, and hematocrit is vital.
- Hormonal Assessments:
- Thyroid Function Tests (TSH, Free T4): Hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism can affect blood pressure.
- Aldosterone and Renin: These hormones regulate blood pressure; imbalances can indicate endocrine hypertension.
Regular blood tests, alongside monitoring blood pressure readings, provide a comprehensive picture of cardiovascular health, helping tailor treatment to the individual needs of patients.
Recommended Tests:
