Did you know alcohol intake matters when you’re monitoring or managing blood pressure? This is since alcohol consumption increases the blood pressure levels drastically. Even “moderate” and consistent drinking can affect heart health over time. This is about informed choices for your heart health, not judgement. Doctify connects you with experienced cardiologists for additional help and advice.
While no single food or drink will be solely responsible for hypertension (high blood pressure), there are a number of foods and drinks which, when consumed excessively, can contribute to raised blood pressure.
Dr Piya Sen Gupta, Doctify-rated Diabetes & Endocrinology Specialist.
How alcohol affects blood pressure
Alcohol affects blood pressure from short-term effects to long-term effects. The short-term effects are a temporary rise in blood pressure after drinking, while the long-term effects are sustained increases with regular intake, inflammation, and increased risk of having chronic disorders.
As Doctify-rated Diabetes & Endocrinology Specialist Dr Piya Sen Gupta explains, alcoholic drinks consumed in binges can activate sympathetic nervous system pathways promoting adrenaline and noradrenaline release and raising blood pressure, whereas alternative hormonal pathways involving salt and water retention (renin, aldosterone) can be activated with chronic alcohol excess, also raising blood pressure.
What counts as “too much” alcohol?
UK alcohol units are a way to track pure alcohol in drinks, in order to help keep track of the amount of alcohol in each drink and stay within health guidelines. The current UK guideline limits for adults is no more than 14 units of alcohol per week for men and women. Being 1 unit equal to 10 ml or 8 g of pure alcohol.
Guidelines are lower for people with high blood pressure or heart disease, ideally 1-7 units of alcohol per week with alcohol-free days. This is since excess alcohol drinking raises blood pressure, harms the heart muscle, produces irregular heartbeats, and causes an increase in cardiovascular risk.
The impact of binge drinking
The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism defines binge drinking as: “a pattern of drinking that brings blood alcohol concentration to 0.08% or higher. For a typical adult, this corresponds to five or more drinks (male), or four or more drinks (female), in about two hours”.
Drinking several units in one session spikes blood pressure more sharply because it activates your stress response, releases hormones that constrict blood vessels, and causes dehydration and electrolyte shifts. As well, after drinking heavy sessions there is an increased risk of heart rhythm problems and stroke.
Alcohol and blood pressure medication
Alcohol can reduce medication effectiveness by altering the drug metabolism and interfering with its absorption. When mixing alcohol and treatment, the medication’s side effects can be worse, manifesting as dizziness, low blood pressure, or falls. Blood pressure control consistency matters because the cardiologist needs to check whether the patient is taking good medication or having side effects.
Drinks that raise blood pressure more than people expect
Listed below are some drinks that raise blood pressure more than normal:
- Strong spirits and large wine pours.
- Beer and cider consumed in higher volumes.
- Energy drinks mixed with alcohol.
- Hidden calories and salt that contribute indirectly.
Signs alcohol may be affecting your blood pressure
These are some signs that your body sends for you to know alcohol is affecting your blood pressure.
- Blood pressure readings are higher the day after drinking.
- Constant headaches, flushing, or palpitations.
- Poor sleep or increased anxiety after alcohol.
- Blood pressure is persistently high >140/90mmHg
Practical ways to cut back safely
A. Set realistic limits
- Having alcohol-free days each week.
- Spacing drinks out rather than drinking daily.
B. Swap drinks
- Lower-alcohol options.
- Alternating with water or alcohol-free alternatives.
C. Change habits, not just quantities
- Avoiding “reward” drinking.
- Managing stress without alcohol.
When to talk to your doctor
Please contact a GP or cardiologist if you experience any of the following:
- Blood pressure remains high despite treatment.
- Cutting down alcohol feels difficult.
- Binge drinking is part of your routine.
- Blood pressure is persistently high >140/90mmHg
Don’t worry, cardiologists and GPs often offer support when needed without judgement.
Final takeaway
Alcohol can quietly raise blood pressure, even at levels many people consider normal. Small, sustainable changes can make a meaningful difference to heart health. Our cardiologists and GPs are willing to help, with no judgement. Doctify helps you find trusted cardiologists and GPs for personalised advice and ongoing support.
Find the right specialist for you. Doctify uses verified reviews so you can make the best decision for your healthcare.
Feel free to consult a cardiologist through Doctify for personalised advice whenever you want, we will be happy to help you! Find the best cardiologist in the United Kingdom or search for the best specialists globally:
- Cardiologist in the United Arab Emirates
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Medically Reviewed
Last reviewed on 16/12/2025
