What counts as high blood pressure?

Blood pressure is given as two numbers. As a general guide, a reading consistently at or above 140/90 mmHg in a clinic is usually considered high, though the exact figure your GP acts on depends on your individual circumstances and how readings are taken.

Does high blood pressure have symptoms?

Usually not. Most people feel completely well, which is why it is sometimes called a "silent" condition and why regular checks matter. Very high blood pressure can occasionally cause headaches or other symptoms.

How can I lower my blood pressure naturally?

Helpful steps include eating less salt, being more physically active, keeping to a healthy weight, cutting down on alcohol, not smoking and managing stress. Your GP can give advice tailored to you.

Will I need to take medication forever?

Some people manage with lifestyle changes alone, while others need medication, sometimes long term. Your GP will review your treatment regularly. Never stop blood pressure medicine without medical advice.

High blood pressure | HealthAnswers

Quick answer

What is high blood pressure?

High blood pressure (hypertension) means the force of blood pushing against your artery walls is consistently too high. It usually has no symptoms, so many people do not know they have it. Over time it raises the risk of heart attack and stroke, but it can often be lowered with lifestyle changes and, if needed, medication.

What is high blood pressure?

Blood pressure is a measure of how strongly your blood pushes against the walls of your arteries. High blood pressure, or hypertension, means this pressure is consistently higher than it should be. It is very common and becomes more likely as you get older.

Why it matters

High blood pressure rarely makes you feel unwell, but left untreated it puts extra strain on your heart and blood vessels. Over time this raises the risk of serious problems including heart attack, stroke, kidney disease and vascular dementia. The good news is that lowering blood pressure reduces these risks.

How it is diagnosed

Because there are usually no symptoms, high blood pressure is often picked up during a routine check. A single high reading does not necessarily mean you have it — a GP may take several readings, or ask you to monitor your blood pressure at home or over 24 hours, to get an accurate picture.

How it is managed

Treatment depends on your reading and your overall risk. Lifestyle changes are usually the first step and can be very effective: reducing salt, being more active, maintaining a healthy weight, drinking less alcohol, stopping smoking and eating a balanced diet.

If lifestyle changes are not enough, a GP may prescribe medication. There are several types, and it is common to take more than one. Your GP will monitor how well treatment is working and adjust it over time.

Staying on top of it

The simplest, most important step is knowing your numbers. Getting your blood pressure checked regularly — at a GP surgery or many pharmacies — means any problem can be caught and managed early.

Common questions

What counts as high blood pressure?: Blood pressure is given as two numbers. As a general guide, a reading consistently at or above 140/90 mmHg in a clinic is usually considered high, though the exact figure your GP acts on depends on your individual circumstances and how readings are taken.
Does high blood pressure have symptoms?: Usually not. Most people feel completely well, which is why it is sometimes called a "silent" condition and why regular checks matter. Very high blood pressure can occasionally cause headaches or other symptoms.
How can I lower my blood pressure naturally?: Helpful steps include eating less salt, being more physically active, keeping to a healthy weight, cutting down on alcohol, not smoking and managing stress. Your GP can give advice tailored to you.
Will I need to take medication forever?: Some people manage with lifestyle changes alone, while others need medication, sometimes long term. Your GP will review your treatment regularly. Never stop blood pressure medicine without medical advice.

Sources

NHS — High blood pressure (hypertension)