Alcohol-induced hypertension: mechanisms, complications, and clinical implications.

Alcohol abuse is a frequent contributor to elevated blood pressure and may be the most common cause of secondary hypertension. The mechanism of this association is unknown. In most cases, the blood pressure elevations are reversible and return to normal upon discontinuation of alcohol use. Even though transitory, such hypertension cannot be considered benign, or inconsequential, since it may be contributory to the increased prevalence of cardiovascular disease observed in problem drinkers.