There are many factors that can raise blood pressure. Some of the most common ones include:

• Salt: Consuming too much salt can raise blood pressure, especially in people who are salt-sensitive.

• Added sugars: High-fructose corn syrup and other processed forms of sugar can also raise blood pressure.

• Stress: Acute stress can cause a temporary increase in blood pressure, but chronic stress can lead to sustained high blood pressure.

• Pain: Acute pain can raise blood pressure.

• Certain medications: Some medications, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), steroids, and some birth control pills, can raise blood pressure.

• Lack of sleep: Not getting enough sleep or having interrupted sleep can raise blood pressure.

• Obesity: Being overweight or obese can increase the risk of developing high blood pressure.

• Other health conditions: Certain health conditions, such as kidney disease, diabetes, and sleep apnea, can also raise blood pressure.

• Alcohol: Drinking too much alcohol can raise blood pressure.

• Air pollution: Exposure to air pollution, particularly fine particulate matter, can raise blood pressure.

Making healthy lifestyle changes, such as reducing salt and added sugar intake, managing stress, getting enough sleep, and maintaining a healthy weight, can help lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of developing high blood pressure.