Hypertension and Hypermobility: A Hidden Risk as We Age

SEDSConnective
May 17
3 min read

When we think of hypermobility, we often focus on joint flexibility, pain, executive functioning, instability, internal pain, fatigue, gastrointestinal issues. The issues with neurodivergence mean that due to our interoceptive and propriocetive senses being impaired we are more unaware of any signals. But did you know that hypermobility can also affect your blood pressure? This connection is often misunderstood, but it’s critical especially as we age.

We are often not believed and this has been historical so if might feel you are making up the unwell symptoms.

This is the why for this warning from our Chair.

I’ve always had low blood pressure. My readings were consistently around 110/70 sometimes lower. I've had comments from health professionals that if they had my bp that low they would be unconscious. With my dysautonomia (but not POTS) I was used to feeling lightheaded at times.

Over the years, I had to carefully manage my diet due to mast cell activation syndrome (MCAS) storms and medication sensitivities. But I never imagined I would face the opposite problem high blood pressure.Recently, I started noticing some changes.

Nothing dramatic, just a vague feeling that something was off. Still, every time I mentioned it, I was reassured that my heart was fine. Blood pressure? That was presumed to be fine too, given my lifelong low readings. But then, by chance, I had my blood pressure checked and it was high. At first, I thought it was a mistake. I went to a doctor for another test and in the morning, it was still high but not enough to raise concern for them.

I knew something was wrong. "But it’s high for me," I insisted. "I’ve always had low blood pressure.Their response? A standard reliance on standard ranges unless I was above a set number, it wasn’t a problem. But I knew my body. I pushed for a longer test, insisted on it.

After a sleepless night with a 24-hour monitor, the results were undeniablestage 2 hypertension, bordering on very high. My lifelong low blood pressure had turned into a dangerous spike. I was immediately put on medication. My first reaction was disbelief. Why? I kept asking. The most common answer was a vague "It happens with age stiffening of the arteries."

I share this because I believe strongly that we are not adequately warned. If I hadn’t trusted my instincts, I might never have known. The side effects of the medication are rough, but they are a price I am willing to pay. 'Hypertension can be a silent killer' as the slogan goes.

If you have always had low blood pressure, don’t assume it will always stay that way. Check it. Question it. Don’t let anyone tell you it’s fine if you feel it’s not.

Your body knows. Listen to it.

Hypermobility and Blood Pressure: The Connection

For many people with hypermobility, low blood pressure (hypotension) is a common issue, causing dizziness, fainting and fatigue, fand or those with dysautonomia (POTS OI ) as well, we know we have large swings in heart rate and blood pressure.

But here’s the hidden danger: as we age, that low blood pressure can swing in the opposite direction turning into high blood pressure (hypertension).

Why Does This Happen?

The same connective tissue differences that make joints more flexible can also affect the walls of blood vessels, impacting how they contract and relax. Over time, these irregularities can lead to poor blood pressure regulation.

As you age your blood pressure tends to go up for various reasons but one might be more 'stiffness' in the arteries or diet and lifestyle

A Silent Threat

Hypertension is often called a “silent killer” because it may not show obvious symptoms until it’s too late leading to heart attacks, strokes, or other serious conditions. For those with hypermobility, the shift from low to high blood pressure can be unexpected and even more dangerous.

What You Can Do

✅ Monitor Your Blood Pressure Regularly: Don’t assume low blood pressure will stay low forever.
✅ Stay Informed: Be aware of symptoms like headaches, chest pain, or blurred vision, which could indicate high blood pressure.
✅ Seek Medical Advice: Make sure your doctor understands the connection between hypermobility and blood pressure regulation.