Hypertension, also known as high blood pressure, is a condition in which the pressure of blood against the walls of the arteries stays raised over time. It is common, it is treatable, and it very often causes no symptoms at all until damage has already been done to the heart, brain, kidneys or eyes.
Who should be checked
- Anyone over 30, and younger adults who are overweight, drink heavily or use a lot of salt
- Anyone with a family history of high blood pressure, stroke or kidney disease
- Every pregnant woman, at every antenatal visit
Living with hypertension
- Treatment is usually lifelong. Take your medicine every day, not only when you feel unwell
- Reduce salt, cut back on alcohol, stop smoking and stay physically active
- Attend your review appointments so treatment can be adjusted
Come immediately if you have a severe headache, chest pain, difficulty breathing, sudden weakness or numbness on one side, or slurred speech.