High blood pressure FAQs

1. What is high blood pressure?
2. What causes high blood pressure?
3. Are some people more likely to have high blood pressure than others?
4. Is high blood pressure dangerous?
5. What are the symptoms of high blood pressure?
6. How high is too high for blood pressure?
7. Have I inherited high blood pressure?
8. What can I do to prevent high blood pressure?
9. Are there any treatments for this condition?
10. Which is the best treatment for me?

What is high blood pressure?

High blood pressure is a condition that occurs when there is too much pressure inflicted on the arterial walls when the blood is pumped around the body. This extra pressure is caused because the arteries are too narrow or constricted to allow blood through easily. This leads to extra strain being put on the heart.

What causes high blood pressure?

You will either be diagnosed with primary or secondary hypertension. The former, which is otherwise known as "essential hypertension", is far more common - affecting 95% of sufferers - whereas secondary hypertension is relatively rare. The distinction is important because it relates to the underlying causes of high blood pressure. The term secondary hypertension is used when it is known that a particular underlying health condition is the cause, such as endocrine tumours or hormonal disturbances.

Essential hypertension means the cause is not known, though there are a number of risk factors that have been identified, such as obesity, smoking, alcohol consumption and stress, to name a few.

Are some people more likely to have high blood pressure than others?

Risk groups for high blood pressure include older people, those who are overweight, those with a poor diet, those who do not exercise regularly and people of African and Caribbean descent.

Is high blood pressure dangerous?

It is the problems caused by hypertension rather than the condition itself that are considered to be dangerous. In this sense, high blood pressure is dangerous because of its potential to cause future problems rather than for its own sake. The extra strain that is put on the heart and arteries can lead to very serious health complications, including heart failure, embolism, kidney disease, stroke, aneurysm and heart attack.

What are the symptoms of high blood pressure?

High blood pressure does not usually present any symptoms, but it is possible that you could experience nosebleeds, headaches, blurred vision and some shortness of breath. It is important to understand that most people won't notice any symptoms at all, and this is why it is essential to have your blood pressure monitored regularly, especially if you are in a high risk group.

How high is too high for high blood pressure?

Blood pressure that is below 120/80mmHg is generally considered normal, though 130/80mmHg is not usually cause for concern. Measurements of 140/90mmHg or higher will usually prompt further tests and, in some cases, a recommendation of a course of treatment.

Have I inherited high blood pressure?

Not all cases of high blood pressure will be due to genetics, but it is a possibility. If you have a family member who has high blood pressure, you are more likely to develop it yourself.

What can I do to prevent high blood pressure?

If you are worried about developing high blood pressure, you should ensure that you maintain a healthy lifestyle. This means you should eat a balanced diet and get plenty of exercise. Some medications can increase the risk of high blood, so you should bear this in mind before taking certain medications.

Are there any treatments for this condition?

Yes. Treatment for high blood pressure usually comes in the form of recommended lifestyle changes and, in some cases, prescription medication. The medications that are available are not suitable for everyone and whether or not they are prescribed to you will depend on a number of factors, including the cause of your hypertension and your personal medical history.

Which is the best treatment for me?

This is something you will need to discuss with your doctor. In terms of prescription medications, the options are ACE inhibitors, alpha-blockers, beta-blockers, diuretics or calcium channel blockers. A combination of these treatments is also sometimes recommended.