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Hypertension (High Blood Pressure)

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Persistently elevated blood pressure in the arteries, often called the 'silent' condition because it usually causes no symptoms while gradually damaging the heart, kidneys, and blood vessels. Regular blood pressure checks, a low-sodium diet, physical activity, and medication when needed are the cornerstones of management.

This information is for general awareness only and does not replace professional medical advice. Consult a doctor for diagnosis and treatment.

Quick answer

Hypertension (high blood pressure) means the force of blood against the artery walls is persistently higher than it should be. It is very common and often called a “silent” condition.

Most people have no symptoms, even when blood pressure is dangerously high, which is why regular measurement matters. Headaches, dizziness or nosebleeds are not reliable signs.

Diagnosis is by repeated blood pressure readings, sometimes with home or 24-hour monitoring. Treatment combines lifestyle changes with medicines when needed, decided by your doctor. Untreated, it raises the risk of stroke, heart attack and kidney disease.

Symptoms

  • Usually no symptoms

    This is the most important fact: you can feel well and still have high blood pressure.

  • Headache

    Can occur with very high readings, but is not a reliable sign.

  • Dizziness

  • Blurred vision

  • Shortness of breath

  • Chest pain or palpitations

    These need urgent assessment.

  • Nosebleeds

    Occasionally with very high readings, but common for other reasons.

Symptom guides

Causes and risk factors

Causes

  • Primary (essential) hypertension — In most adults no single cause is found; it develops gradually with age, genes and lifestyle.
  • Secondary hypertension — Caused by another condition, such as kidney disease, hormonal disorders, sleep apnoea or certain medicines.

Risk factors

  • Older age
  • Family history of high blood pressure
  • Overweight or obesity
  • High salt intake
  • Physical inactivity
  • Excess alcohol and smoking
  • Diabetes, kidney disease or sleep apnoea

How is it diagnosed?

Blood pressure is measured with a cuff. Because readings vary, a diagnosis is usually based on more than one measurement.

  1. Clinic blood pressure measurement

    Taken seated and rested, on more than one occasion.

  2. Home or 24-hour ambulatory monitoring

    Used to confirm the diagnosis and rule out “white-coat” effect.

  3. Tests for causes and complications

    Blood and urine tests, an ECG and sometimes other tests check the kidneys, heart, blood sugar and cholesterol.

Related tests

Treatment

Treatment lowers blood pressure to a target set by your doctor and reduces the risk of heart attack, stroke and kidney damage. The approach depends on your readings and overall risk.

  • Lifestyle changes

    Less salt, a balanced diet, regular physical activity, a healthy weight, limiting alcohol and not smoking.

  • Medicines

    Many people need one or more blood-pressure medicines. The choice depends on age, other conditions and how you respond, and is made by your doctor.

  • Regular monitoring

    Follow-up visits and, often, home readings to check that treatment is working.

  • Treating a secondary cause

    When another condition is causing the high pressure, treating it can improve control.

Blood-pressure medicines are usually long-term. Do not stop or change them without talking to your doctor, even if you feel well.

When should you see a doctor?

Arrange a medical assessment if

  • Repeated home readings above the level your doctor gave you
  • Headaches, dizziness or vision changes that are new or persistent
  • Side effects from blood-pressure medicines
  • You have never had your blood pressure checked and are over 40 or at risk
  • You are pregnant and have high readings, swelling or headaches

Seek urgent care if

  • Chest pain or pressure
  • Severe shortness of breath
  • Sudden severe headache, confusion, or vision loss
  • Weakness or numbness on one side, facial droop or difficulty speaking

Prevention

  • Reduce salt

    Limit processed and salty foods and avoid adding extra salt.

  • Eat a balanced diet

    Plenty of vegetables, fruit and whole grains.

  • Stay physically active

    Regular moderate activity helps lower blood pressure.

  • Maintain a healthy weight

  • Limit alcohol and avoid smoking

  • Have your blood pressure checked regularly

    Especially after age 40 or if there is a family history.

Frequently asked questions

What is high blood pressure?

It is a condition in which blood pressure stays higher than normal over time. It strains the heart and blood vessels and raises the risk of serious disease.

What are the symptoms of high blood pressure?

Usually none. Some people get headaches or dizziness at very high levels, but the only reliable way to know is to measure it.

What is considered a high blood pressure reading?

Your doctor interprets readings in context. Persistently elevated readings, generally 140/90 mmHg or more in the clinic, are commonly used for diagnosis, but targets vary by person.

Can high blood pressure be cured?

Most people manage it long term with lifestyle changes and medicines. Some secondary causes can be treated, and in some people lifestyle changes alone bring blood pressure to a healthy level.

Why is high blood pressure dangerous?

Over years it can damage the arteries, heart, brain, kidneys and eyes, increasing the risk of heart attack, stroke, heart failure and kidney disease.

How often should I check my blood pressure?

Adults should have it checked regularly — more often if it is high, borderline or you have risk factors. Your doctor can advise on how often to check at home.

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Medical sources

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