High Blood Pressure

Overview

High blood pressure (hypertension) means the force of blood against the artery walls stays higher than normal. It is often called a silent killer because it usually causes no symptoms, yet over time it strains the heart and damages blood vessels, raising the risk of heart attack, stroke, kidney disease and eye problems. A reading of 140/90 mmHg or above on repeated checks is generally considered high.

Causes

• Usually no single cause (primary hypertension), developing with age and lifestyle
• Kidney disease
• Hormone problems such as thyroid or adrenal disorders
• Some medicines, such as painkillers, steroids and decongestants
• Sleep apnoea

Risk factors

• Too much salt in food
• Being overweight and inactive
• Smoking and tobacco use
• Stress and poor sleep
• Family history
• Diabetes and kidney disease
• Getting older

Symptoms

• Most people have no symptoms
• Very high pressure may cause headache, dizziness, blurred vision or nosebleeds
• Chest pain or breathlessness can be signs of complications

Diagnosis

Blood pressure is measured with a cuff on the arm, ideally on several days and sometimes at home or over 24 hours. Your doctor may order blood and urine tests, an ECG and an eye check to look for causes and any damage to organs.

Management

• Cutting down on salt, pickles, processed and fast food
• Regular exercise and weight control
• Stopping smoking and limiting tea and caffeine
• Medicines such as amlodipine, ARBs (valsartan, telmisartan), ACE inhibitors, beta-blockers or water tablets, as prescribed
• Taking medicines every day, even when you feel well
• Checking blood pressure at home

When to see a doctor