Why it matters
Blood pressure reflects the force of blood against artery walls. Persistently high pressure can damage blood vessels and raise the risk of heart disease, stroke and kidney problems.
Know your numbers
One isolated reading does not establish a diagnosis. Correct cuff size, seated rest, repeated measurements and clinical interpretation are important.
Lifestyle priorities
Reduce excess sodium, eat more minimally processed foods, stay active, avoid tobacco, moderate alcohol, manage stress and take prescribed medicines consistently.
Silent does not mean harmless
Many people feel normal even when pressure is high. Regular checks are therefore more reliable than waiting for symptoms.
Emergency warning signs
Seek urgent care for chest pain, severe breathlessness, weakness or numbness on one side, speech difficulty, confusion, fainting or a sudden severe headache.