Coping with... HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE

Hypertension is a risk factor for heart attacks and strokes

- Dr Gill Jenkins

High blood pressure is one of the most common chronic conditions as we age, with around a third of UK adults suffering from it, often without realising, as it rarely has noticeable symptoms. We measure blood pressure as two numbers. The first is the systolic pressure, which is higher, and is the pressure the heart pushes blood around the body. The second, lower number is the diastolic, and is the resistance to blood flow in the blood vessels. Ideally, blood pressure is between 90/60 and 120/80. Over 140/90 is considered high, but as we age, up to 150/90 may be allowed. Blood pressure varies throughout the day, and being dehydrated, tired or anxious can also have an effect. Generally, risk factors for hypertension include being over 65, being overweight, being of African or Caribbean descent, having a family history, not exercising enough, having too much salt in your diet or not enough fruit or veg, drinking too much coffee or alcohol, smoking and not getting enough sleep.

Hypertension can be caused by underlying diseases such as diabetes, kidney disease, hormone problems and medication such as the contraceptive pill, hormones and steroids, some antidepressants, and some herbal remedies and recreational drugs, but often there is no obvious cause. High blood pressure puts a strain on your heart, blood vessels, brain, kidneys and eyes. It’s a risk factor for heart disease, heart attacks and failure, strokes, aortic aneurysms, kidney disease and ischaemic dementia.

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