Menopause and high blood pressure

Hypertension often causes no noticeable symptoms, so hot flushes, headaches or palpitations cannot tell you what your reading is. Blood pressure can be influenced by sleep, stress, weight, activity, alcohol, salt, kidney health and some medicines. Menopause does not make every raised reading harmless. Persistent hypertension can strain blood vessels and the heart over time, and may contribute to stroke, heart failure or kidney disease.

Have readings taken with the correct cuff after sitting quietly, and record the date, time and circumstances. Repeated measurements help distinguish a lasting pattern from a single unusual result. Continue prescribed blood-pressure medicine unless the prescriber changes it. Regular walking or other suitable activity, balanced meals, less salty processed food, good sleep and avoiding tobacco can support cardiovascular health. Ask for a review if hot-flush treatment, pain relief or another medicine may affect pressure. Obesity and obstructive sleep apnoea can also be relevant to discuss.

Book a routine review for repeated raised readings, a new diagnosis, or difficulty taking treatment. Seek emergency help for chest pressure, severe breathlessness, sudden weakness or numbness, facial drooping, new trouble speaking, collapse or a sudden severe headache. Those warning signs can occur with angina or stroke and need immediate assessment.

How should I measure and record my pressure at home? Do my medicines or menopause symptoms affect the plan? Should we assess sleep, kidney function or cardiovascular risk?