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The Heart and Stroke Foundation of South Africa estimates that more than one in every three South African adults is currently living with hypertension, a condition that is responsible for as much as 50% of reported strokes and 40% of heart attacks.
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The biggest challenge in overcoming this is that many people are unaware that they have the condition. Hypertension very rarely presents any symptoms in its early stages, until a severe medical crisis takes place like a heart attack, stroke, or chronic kidney disease. This is why more individuals should be encouraged to make a habit of testing their blood pressure with their doctor or at the pharmacy.
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In light of World Hypertension Day, recognised on 17 May 2018, Douglas Craythorne, Cipla spokesperson for Cardiovascular, urges all adults to have their blood pressure checked regularly, and to consult a medical doctor when they suspect that they may suffer from, or potentially be at risk of developing high blood pressure.
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Patients are considered to have hypertension when their blood pressure exceeds 140 over 90. Raised blood pressure is a major risk factor for chronic heart disease, stroke, and coronary heart disease.
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Although the majority of patients with hypertension remain asymptomatic, individuals should also consider getting themselves tested for high blood pressure if they experience regular headaches, light-headedness, vertigo, altered vision, or fainting episodes.
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Once a doctor has made a diagnosis of hypertension, patients need to start tracking their blood pressure levels on a regular basis. There are also a number of lifestyle changes that a doctor may recommend for hypertension sufferers. It is equally important that patients who are prescribed medication to treat their hypertension, do not cease using their medication without consulting their doctors.
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Hypertension is a growing risk for many South Africans, and, while it is good to follow a healthy lifestyle and adopt the right diet, the only way to be sure of your blood pressure status is to have your blood pressure measured at least once a year.