World Hypertension Day: what you should know

Hypertension, also called high blood pressure, means pressure within the arteries remains raised over time. It often causes no noticeable symptoms, so a measurement is the dependable way to identify it. A single reading can be influenced by stress, activity, pain, caffeine, or the measurement setting; a clinician considers repeat readings and the wider health picture.

Over time, raised pressure can strain blood vessels and organs including the heart, brain, kidneys, and eyes. It can occur alongside obesity, obstructive sleep apnoea, kidney disease, or other health concerns, which is why a review may include questions beyond the blood-pressure reading.

Have your blood pressure checked as advised and keep a record if you measure it at home. Take prescribed medicine consistently and do not stop it because you feel well without discussing it first. A clinician can check technique, review side effects, and consider other medicines or supplements that may affect blood pressure.

Regular movement, a balanced pattern of eating, limiting salt and alcohol, improving sleep, and stopping smoking can form part of a personal plan. Make changes that are realistic for your routine and ask for help with the barriers that make them difficult.

Seek emergency care for sudden weakness or numbness on one side, difficulty speaking, a sudden severe headache, fainting, new severe chest pain, or severe breathlessness. These symptoms require urgent assessment because they can occur with serious heart, brain, or circulation problems. Do not drive yourself if symptoms are severe or rapidly developing.

Ask how and when to measure blood pressure, what your readings mean, and whether kidney, heart, or sleep-related problems need assessment. Bring your home monitor if you have one so its use can be checked.