Can hypertension cause heart failure?

The heart must push against greater resistance when blood pressure stays high. Over time, the main pumping chamber can become thicker and less able to relax, or it may eventually lose pumping strength. Heart failure means the heart cannot meet the body's needs as effectively; it does not mean that the heart has stopped. Breathlessness, reduced stamina, ankle swelling and rapid weight change can be clues.

Have persistent high readings, breathlessness or swelling assessed by a clinician. Take prescribed blood-pressure or heart medicines consistently and report dizziness, cough or other troublesome effects rather than stopping treatment yourself. Keep a symptom and reading diary, follow advice about salt and fluids, stay active within your limits, and attend reviews so treatment can be adjusted.

Seek emergency help for severe or rapidly worsening breathlessness, chest pain, fainting, blue or grey lips, confusion, or inability to speak in full sentences. Sit upright while waiting if breathing is difficult, and do not drive yourself. New swelling or breathlessness also deserves prompt clinical review, even without dramatic symptoms.

Ask how your blood pressure affects your heart, whether you need heart tests, which symptoms to track, and what to do if a medicine causes dizziness or worsening breathlessness.