Hypertension and heart failure: what to know

High blood pressure makes the heart pump against greater resistance. Over time, the heart muscle may become thicker or less flexible, and the chambers may struggle to fill or pump effectively. Heart failure means the heart is not meeting the body's needs as well as it should; it does not mean the heart has stopped.

Heart failure may present with breathlessness, tiredness, a cough, or swollen ankles. These symptoms can have other causes, and a symptom alone does not establish heart failure. A clinician may check blood pressure, heart rhythm, heart sounds, kidney function and fluid balance, with further tests if needed.

Take prescribed blood-pressure or heart medicines as directed, and do not stop them suddenly without medical advice. Keep a record of home readings if your clinician has asked for this, noting the time and whether you were resting.

Attend a chronic disease review to discuss readings, symptoms, medicines and kidney checks. Limit salty processed foods, avoid smoking, and build activity gradually within advice suited to your symptoms. Ask before using anti-inflammatory painkillers or supplements, because some can affect blood pressure or fluid balance.

Seek urgent help for severe or rapidly worsening breathlessness, chest pressure, fainting, new confusion, or blue-grey lips. Get prompt medical advice if swelling increases quickly, you gain fluid-related weight over a short period, or you cannot lie flat because breathing becomes difficult.

Ask whether your symptoms suggest fluid build-up, how often your blood pressure and kidney function should be checked, and what reading or symptom should prompt a call. Clarify which medicines to take during vomiting, diarrhoea or an intercurrent illness.