High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, is one of the most common health conditions worldwide, yet many people do not fully understand what it means or how it affects their body. Understanding high blood pressure is an important first step toward prevention, early detection, and long-term management.
High blood pressure often develops quietly, without obvious warning signs, which is why it is sometimes called a “silent condition.” However, when left unmanaged, it can lead to serious health complications. This article explains what high blood pressure is, what causes it, who is at risk, and why awareness matters.
What Is High Blood Pressure?
Blood pressure refers to the force of blood pushing against the walls of your arteries as your heart pumps. It is measured using two numbers:
Systolic pressure – the pressure when the heart beats
Diastolic pressure – the pressure when the heart rests between beats
Blood pressure is written as systolic over diastolic, for example 120/80 mmHg.
High blood pressure occurs when this force remains consistently higher than normal. Over time, increased pressure puts strain on the heart and blood vessels, making them work harder than they should.
According to British Heart Foundation, there are three different stages of high blood pressure:
- Stage one: this is when your blood pressure is between 140/90 mmHg and 160/100 mmHg in the clinic, or 135/85 mmHg to 150/95 mmHg at home.
- Stage two: this is when your blood pressure is between 160/100 mmHg and 180/120 mmHg in the clinic, or over 150/95 mmHg at home.
- Stage three: this is when your systolic blood pressure is over 180 mmHg or your diastolic blood pressure is over 120 mmHg in the clinic. This stage is also called ‘severe hypertension’, and your GP will need to assess you urgently for further investigations.
What Causes High Blood Pressure?
Common causes and contributors include:
High salt intake
Diets high in processed or fried foods
Lack of physical activity
Excess body weight
Chronic stress
Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption
Family history of high blood pressure
In many people, high blood pressure develops gradually over time, especially when unhealthy habits persist.
Common Symptoms of High Blood Pressure
One of the reasons high blood pressure is dangerous is that it often has no clear symptoms, especially in the early stages. Many people feel completely fine and are unaware their blood pressure is high.
However, some individuals may experience symptoms such as:
Frequent headaches
Dizziness or light-headedness
Blurred vision
Chest discomfort
Shortness of breath
Fatigue
These symptoms are often discussed in more detail in our article on Early Signs of High Blood Pressure You Shouldn’t Ignore, as they are commonly ignored or mistaken for everyday stress.
Why High Blood Pressure Is Dangerous
When high blood pressure is not managed, it can cause long-term damage to vital organs. Constant pressure weakens blood vessels and strains the heart.
Possible complications include:
Stroke
Heart disease and heart failure
Kidney damage
Vision problems
Increased risk of sudden medical emergencies
This is why understanding high blood pressure and checking it regularly is so important, even if you feel healthy.
Who Is at Risk of High Blood Pressure?
Anyone can develop high blood pressure, but some people are at higher risk than others.
Risk factors include:
Increasing age
Family history of hypertension
Sedentary lifestyle
Poor dietary habits
High stress levels
Living with conditions such as diabetes
In many African and Nigerian communities, lifestyle changes, urban living, and dietary patterns have contributed to rising cases of high blood pressure.
How High Blood Pressure Is Diagnosed
High blood pressure is diagnosed using a blood pressure monitor, either in a clinic or at home. A single high reading does not always mean hypertension, which is why multiple readings over time are usually recommended.
Regular monitoring helps:
Detect high blood pressure early
Track changes over time
Guide lifestyle or treatment decisions
Home blood pressure monitoring can be especially helpful when done correctly and discussed with a healthcare professional.
Can High Blood Pressure Be Managed?
Yes. While high blood pressure is often a long-term condition, it can be managed effectively.
Management may include:
Healthy eating habits
Reduced salt intake
Regular physical activity
Stress management
Maintaining a healthy weight
Medication when prescribed by a doctor
Lifestyle changes play a key role, and you can learn more through related guides such as how to lower blood pressure naturally and best Nigerian foods for managing high blood pressure.
When Should You See a Doctor?
You should seek medical advice if:
Your blood pressure readings are consistently high
You experience persistent symptoms such as chest pain or severe headaches
You have existing medical conditions like diabetes or kidney disease
Early medical guidance helps prevent complications and supports safe, effective management.
Final Thoughts
Understanding high blood pressure empowers you to take control of your health. Awareness, regular blood pressure checks, and healthy lifestyle choices can make a meaningful difference in preventing long-term complications.
At VeeVee Health, the goal is to provide clear, practical health education that supports informed decisions and healthier living. Small steps taken consistently can lead to lasting improvements in wellbeing.
References.
- https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/high-blood-pressure/
- https://www.bhf.org.uk/informationsupport/risk-factors/high-blood-pressure#normalbp
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Frequently Asked Questions About High Blood Pressure
What blood pressure reading is considered high?
A blood pressure reading is generally considered high when it is 140/90 mmHg or higher on repeated measurements. Blood pressure between 120/80 mmHg and 139/89 mmHg may indicate elevated or borderline levels and should be monitored closely.
Can high blood pressure go away on its own?
High blood pressure usually does not go away on its own. In some cases, lifestyle changes such as healthier eating, reduced salt intake, regular physical activity, and stress management can help lower blood pressure. However, many people need long-term monitoring and, in some cases, medication prescribed by a healthcare professional.
How often should blood pressure be checked?
Adults should check their blood pressure at least once a year. People with risk factors such as family history, diabetes, or previous high readings may need to check it more often. Regular monitoring helps with early detection and better management.
Is high blood pressure common in younger adults?
Yes. High blood pressure is increasingly common in younger adults due to factors such as stress, poor diet, lack of physical activity, and excess weight. Regular checks are important regardless of age.
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