Understanding High Blood Pressure: Causes, Types, and When to Seek Medical Help

Understanding High Blood Pressure

What is High Blood Pressure?

High blood pressure—also known as hypertension—is a long-term condition where the force of blood against your artery walls is consistently too high. Over time, this pressure can damage arteries and lead to serious health problems such as heart disease, stroke, and kidney failure. Often called the “silent killer,” high blood pressure usually has no obvious symptoms, making regular monitoring vital.

Common Symptoms of High Blood Pressure

Most people with high blood pressure do not experience noticeable symptoms, especially in the early stages. However, when the condition is severe, some signs may include:

Headaches

Blurred vision

Dizziness or light-headedness

Shortness of breath

Nosebleeds

Chest pain or palpitations

Because symptoms can be rare or mistaken for other issues, routine blood pressure checks are the best way to detect this condition early.

Causes of High Blood Pressure

High blood pressure can be classified into two types:

Primary hypertension – develops gradually over time without an identifiable cause

Secondary hypertension – caused by underlying health conditions or medications

Common causes and risk factors include:

Family history of hypertension

Poor diet, especially high in salt and saturated fats

Obesity or overweight

Lack of physical activity

Smoking or alcohol overuse

Chronic stress

Kidney disease, thyroid disorders, or sleep apnoea

Identifying the root cause helps guide effective treatment.

When to See a Doctor

You should consult a health professional if:

Your home blood pressure readings are consistently above 140/90 mmHg

You’ve never had your blood pressure checked and are over age 40

You have symptoms like frequent headaches, chest pain, or blurred vision

You have risk factors such as diabetes, obesity, or a family history of heart disease

You're pregnant or planning a pregnancy and concerned about blood pressure

Early detection and regular monitoring are key to preventing complications.

Which Health Professionals Treat High Blood Pressure?

Managing high blood pressure often involves a team of healthcare providers:

General practitioners (GPs) – for diagnosis, medication, and ongoing care

Cardiologists – for complex or treatment-resistant hypertension

Pharmacists – for medication advice and blood pressure checks

Dietitians – to help manage weight and create a heart-healthy diet

Lifestyle coaches – for exercise, stress management, and behaviour change support

Need to find health professionals near me? My Health Assistant helps you connect with the right care providers in your area.

Risks Associated with Treatment of High Blood Pressure

While managing high blood pressure is crucial, treatment may involve some risks:

Medication side effects – such as dizziness, fatigue, or dry cough

Over-reliance on medication without lifestyle changes

Sudden drops in blood pressure (hypotension) if dosage is too high

Interactions with other medications or supplements

Regular follow-ups with your healthcare provider ensure safe and effective management.

Treatment Options for High Blood Pressure

Treatment is tailored to the severity of the condition and any underlying health issues. Options may include:

Lifestyle changes:

Reducing salt intake

Maintaining a healthy weight

Regular physical activity

Limiting alcohol and quitting smoking

Stress reduction techniques

Medications – such as ACE inhibitors, beta-blockers, diuretics, or calcium channel blockers

Home monitoring – with digital blood pressure cuffs

Routine check-ups – to track progress and adjust treatment plans

Combining medication with healthy habits often provides the best results.

Summary

High blood pressure is a common but serious condition that can quietly damage your health if left unmanaged. With early diagnosis, lifestyle adjustments, and medical support, it can be effectively controlled. My Health Assistant helps you find trusted health professionals near me who can guide your journey to a healthier heart. Start today by visiting www.myha.co.uk.