Blood pressure
High Blood Pressure (Hypertension)
7 min read · General education
Overview
High blood pressure means the force of blood against artery walls is consistently too high. It often has no symptoms, so the only way to know is to have it measured. Over time it raises the risk of heart attack, stroke and kidney disease.
Common symptoms
- Usually no symptoms at all
- Very high readings may sometimes cause headache, blurred vision or chest pain
Possible causes and risk factors
- Eating too much salt
- Being overweight
- Physical inactivity
- Smoking and excess alcohol
- Family history and older age
- Ongoing stress
Prevention and healthy lifestyle
- Get your blood pressure checked regularly
- Reduce salt — go easy on namak, achaar, papad and processed snacks
- Eat more vegetables and fruit
- Be physically active most days
- Avoid tobacco in all forms
Nutrition and exercise considerations
- Cook with less salt and use herbs, lemon and spices for flavour
- Choose grilled or boiled over deep-fried foods
- Aim for regular moderate activity such as brisk walking
When to consult a healthcare professional
- You have never had your blood pressure measured
- Home readings are often high
- You have been prescribed medicine — never stop it without speaking to your doctor
Emergency warning signs
- • Sudden severe headache, chest pain, breathlessness, confusion, or face drooping, arm weakness or slurred speech — call emergency services immediately
In Pakistan, call Rescue 1122 or 115 (Edhi) in an emergency.