Can Strep Throat Cause High Blood Pressure?
December 29, 2023 | by Yashaswi Pathakamuri | Posted in FAQ's
Strep throat, caused by the bacteria Streptococcus pyogenes, typically does not directly cause high blood pressure (hypertension). However, in rare cases, certain complications resulting from untreated or inadequately treated strep throat can potentially lead to conditions that might affect blood pressure.
Rheumatic fever is a rare but serious complication of untreated strep throat, particularly in children. This condition can develop a few weeks after a strep throat infection and may lead to inflammation in various parts of the body, including the heart, joints, skin, and central nervous system. If rheumatic fever affects the heart valves (rheumatic heart disease), it could lead to heart problems that, in some cases, might indirectly impact blood pressure.
Moreover, in very rare instances, severe infections, including certain bacterial infections like strep throat, might trigger a condition known as sepsis. Sepsis is a life-threatening response to an infection that can affect various organs and systems in the body, potentially leading to fluctuations in blood pressure among other severe symptoms.
It’s important to note that strep throat itself is not a direct cause of high blood pressure in the majority of cases. Hypertension is more commonly influenced by factors such as genetics, lifestyle, diet, weight, and other medical conditions.
If someone has concerns about their blood pressure or experiences symptoms of high blood pressure, it’s crucial to consult a healthcare professional for proper evaluation and management. Additionally, timely treatment of strep throat with antibiotics can help prevent potential complications and reduce the risk of related conditions that might indirectly impact blood pressure.