Why you should check your blood pressure more often
Hypertension is at the root of heart disease and, if left untreated, it can cause heart attacks, strokes, and heart failure, as well as organ damage.
Commonly referred to as ‘the silent killer’, high blood pressure (or hypertension) often has no symptoms and greatly increases the risk of heart attack and stroke.
With World Stroke Day celebrated on 29 October, it is vital to raise awareness of the link between hypertension and stroke.
The biggest risk factor for having a stroke, according to The Heart and Stroke Foundation of South Africa, is high, uncontrolled blood pressure.
‘It is estimated that about 30.4%, or 1 in 3 adults in South Africa, have high blood pressure,’ says Dr Martin Mpe, president of the Southern African Hypertension Society.
‘South Africa has seen an exponential growth in hypertension over the last 20 years,’ says Professor Brian Rayner, nephrologist and director of the Hypertension Institute at the University of Cape Town.
‘It’s a national health emergency, but because the links between high BP and death, heart disease and stroke are indirect, public awareness is poor.’
In addition to strokes, heart attacks, and heart and kidney failure, hypertension is also related to dementia and sexual dysfunction.
These problems can be prevented if they are well treated and controlled.
Professor Rayner stresses that all adults should have their blood pressure measured regularly.
‘Getting tested is easy and painless. It’s advisable for everyone to get their blood pressure checked at least once a year.’
One high blood pressure reading is not enough for a diagnosis of hypertension and additional tests may be needed.
Most people will have higher readings when under physical or emotional stress.
Blood pressure should be measured when you are relaxed and rested.
Lifestyle is a key factor in the prevention and management of hypertension.
Generally, people who have high blood pressure also have some of the other risks for heart disease and stroke, such as not getting enough physical activity, having unhealthy eating habits, using too much salt, smoking, being overweight or drinking too much alcohol.
Eating lots of fresh fruit and vegetables, as well as aerobic exercise, are highly recommended.
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