Seasonal Changes

October 2025

With the arrival of fall, we see leaves change color, temperatures get cooler, days get shorter, and it is possible that your blood pressure may experience changes as well.

Blood Pressure with the Seasons

During the fall and winter months, many people see that their blood pressure tends to be higher than normal. This is due to a variety of factors that include:

- Vasoconstriction- this is when the blood vessels narrow to try and retain body heat, typically during colder weather

- Seasonal affective disorder- causes changes in routines, eating habits, and hormones which can elevate your blood pressure

- Stress- many people experience an increased stress level this time of the year as they start getting ready for holiday celebrations and changes in financial routines

- Travel- remaining in a seat, be it in the car or on a plane for extended periods of time can cause fluid retention

- Diet- the holiday season has most of us eating things that we don't typically include in our diets. Many of these indulgences have high levels of sodium

Identifying Your Circumstances

While many people experience changes in he blood pressure towards the end of the year, the good news is that it is usually temporary. The first step in treating your blood pressure is identifying what could be causing it. Some questions to ask yourself or that your care team may ask you:

- Have you been more or less physically active than normal?

- Have you been mindful of moderation in your diet?

- Have you been under extra stress from planning for the holidays?

- Are you concerned with a change in financial status while you get ready for the end of the year?

- Have you been taking your medications as prescribed or have you found yourself missing doses?

Consistency is Key

Consistency is the key when it comes to managing the changes in your blood pressure. Some of the things to remember to do this holiday season:

- Designate a set time every day to take your blood pressure. This will allow you to detect changes early and identify causes.

- Be sure to speak with your patient care coordinator every month. While we understand your schedule is likely to be busier than usual, we are here to help you identify changes and intervene faster if necessary

- Check your medications, many places have altered holiday hours. Be sure to request your refills in a timely manner to avoid gaps or delays in your medications.

- Set timers or alarms to remind you to take your medications every day. It can be easy to miss doses with the added festivities during the holiday season.

Additional Resources

Websites, Articles, and/or Videos

Mayo Clinic: Blood Pressure and Weather

Mayo Clinic: Elevated Blood Pressure

Cleveland Clinic: Hypertension

Blog Posts

Don't Forget to Remember

Healthy Through the Holidays

FAQs about Hypertension

Community Events

Fall RV Show

Tails and Trails

US Navy 250th Birthday

Still Have Questions?

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