Hypertension means that the pressure of blood inside the arteries remains higher than it should be. It is common, and many people feel completely well even when their blood pressure is high. The only reliable way to know your blood pressure is to measure it correctly.
Why should high blood pressure be taken seriously?
Over time, uncontrolled blood pressure can damage blood vessels and place extra strain on the heart. It can increase the risk of heart attack, stroke, heart failure, kidney disease and problems with vision. These complications usually develop gradually, which is why prevention and long-term control are so important.
Health check-ups matter
Do not wait for headache, dizziness or other symptoms before checking your blood pressure. Adults should have their blood pressure checked periodically, and people with diabetes, kidney disease, obesity, a family history of hypertension or previous high readings may need more frequent monitoring. A health check-up also allows your doctor to assess weight, blood sugar, cholesterol, kidney function and other cardiovascular risk factors when appropriate.
Take prescribed medicines regularly
If your doctor has prescribed blood-pressure medicine, take it regularly at the advised dose and time. Do not stop treatment simply because the blood pressure has improved or because you feel well. Often, the pressure is controlled precisely because the medicine is working. Missing tablets repeatedly can allow blood pressure to rise again.
If you develop side effects, have very low readings, become pregnant, start new medicines or have difficulty following treatment, discuss this with your doctor rather than stopping medicines on your own.
Lifestyle changes are part of treatment
Medicines and lifestyle changes work together. Reduce excess salt, especially from packaged snacks, pickles, papad and processed foods. Prefer vegetables, fruits, pulses, whole grains, nuts in appropriate portions and home-cooked meals. Limit foods rich in saturated and trans fats and avoid tobacco.
Regular physical activity is one of the best investments in cardiovascular health. For most adults who are medically fit, brisk walking or another moderate activity on most days is useful. Build activity gradually if you have been inactive. People with heart disease, severe breathlessness, joint limitations or other significant illnesses should discuss a suitable exercise plan with their clinician.
Maintaining a healthy body weight, sleeping adequately and managing stress are also important. Home blood-pressure monitoring can be helpful when recommended, but it does not replace periodic medical review.
When should you seek urgent help?
Very high blood pressure accompanied by chest pain, severe breathlessness, new weakness or numbness, difficulty speaking, confusion, fainting or severe visual disturbance requires urgent medical assessment.
Take-home message
Hypertension is controllable. Know your numbers, attend regular health check-ups, take prescribed medicines consistently and make healthy food and physical activity part of everyday life. Preventing a stroke or heart attack begins long before symptoms appear.