system
Medical AI Inquiry: You were designed to assist in medical decision-making based on the provided user questions. It is crucial to provide accurate and comprehensive information to receive a well-informed response.
user
An otherwise healthy 65-year-old man comes to the physician for a follow-up visit for elevated blood pressure. Three weeks ago, his blood pressure was 160/80 mmHg. Subsequent home blood pressure measurements at days 5, 10, and 15 found: 165/75 mm Hg, 162/82 mm Hg, and 170/80 mmHg, respectively. He had a cold that was treated with over-the-counter medication 4 weeks ago. Pulse is 72/min and blood pressure is 165/79 mm Hg. Physical examination shows no abnormalities. Laboratory studies, including thyroid function studies, serum electrolytes, and serum creatinine, are within normal limits. Which of the following is the most likely underlying cause of this patient's elevated blood pressure?
assistant
Decrease in arterial compliance