Understanding high blood pressure

High blood pressure, or hypertension, is very common and often causes no symptoms — which is why it sometimes goes unnoticed [1]. The good news is that it can usually be lowered and managed once it is found.

Blood pressure is the force of blood pushing against your artery walls. It is written as two numbers, and is generally considered high at 140/90mmHg or above when measured by a health professional, or 135/85mmHg or above at home [1]. Consistently high blood pressure puts extra strain on the heart and blood vessels, which over time raises the risk of problems such as heart attack, stroke and kidney disease [1].

Lifestyle changes can make a real difference: eating less salt, keeping to a healthy weight, being active (the NHS suggests at least 150 minutes a week), cutting down on alcohol and caffeine, and not smoking [1]. Where needed, a doctor may also prescribe medicine to help lower blood pressure [1]. In the UK, diagnosis and treatment follow the NICE guideline on hypertension (NG136) [2].

If you do not know your numbers, you can ask your GP surgery or a pharmacist for a blood pressure check [1]. This information is general — a healthcare professional can advise on what is right for you, and you should not start or stop any treatment based on this article alone.