A study published this week in the Journal of the American Heart Association looked at the health records of more than 1.2 million working-age adults in Stockholm. Among the roughly 8,000 who had a doctor's diagnosis of long COVID, the chance of developing new high blood pressure over the following years was about 14% higher than in people without it. The link held for women and men and after the researchers accounted for income, other health conditions and how often people saw a doctor.
What the study shows, and what it does not
It is an observational study. It shows an association, not proof that long COVID causes high blood pressure. People with lingering symptoms may simply be checked more often, and some of the difference could come from factors the records do not capture. The authors themselves say the finding supports closer monitoring rather than a change in treatment.
A 14% higher relative risk is also modest. For one person, the most important factor is still their own blood pressure readings over time.
Why it is worth acting on anyway
High blood pressure usually causes no symptoms, and it is one of the most treatable causes of heart attack and stroke. If a simple habit catches it early, that habit is worth having whether or not long COVID played a part.
Practical steps
- Know your numbers. If you had COVID and still have fatigue, palpitations or breathlessness months later, have your blood pressure checked, and repeat it rather than relying on one reading.
- Measure at home. A validated upper-arm monitor, used seated after five minutes of rest, gives a truer picture than an occasional office reading. Our guide to knowing your heart numbers explains the ranges.
- Look at the whole picture. Sleep, activity, weight, alcohol and salt all move blood pressure. Recovery from a long illness is a good time to review them.
- Talk to your physician before starting or changing any medicine.
This article is general information, not medical advice for any individual.
Source: Lindberg P. et al., Journal of the American Heart Association (2026), doi:10.1161/JAHA.126.049721; summary in Medical Dialogues (25 Oct 2026).
About the author. Dr. Irfan Siddiqui is a physician providing concierge care to executives and VIPs through Regenerative Health & Wellness, at home and around the world. More about Dr. Siddiqui · Explore membership.