High blood pressure

Hypertension

Persistently raised blood pressure that usually has no symptoms but increases risk of heart, kidney and stroke problems.

What it is

Hypertension is common and often silent. It is usually managed with lifestyle changes and medication, with regular monitoring.

Signs people often notice

•Usually no symptoms
•Sometimes headaches
•Sometimes blurred vision
•Found on routine checking

Who it affects

Very common from middle age onwards; more common in people of African or South Asian origin.

Questions worth asking your clinician

?What is my target blood pressure?
?How often should I check at home?
?Which lifestyle changes would help most?

This information is general and educational. Always speak to your GP or prescribing clinician before changing medication, starting supplements, or acting on anything you read here.

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