High Blood Pressure – The Silent Killer

Do you know why high blood pressure is known as “The Silent Killer”?

High blood pressure is said to effect approximately 25% of the population of England and is one of the biggest causes of premature death and disability.  The scariest fact is that you would most probably experience no symptoms at all, so having your blood pressure tested regularly can help spot the silent symptoms early.  Having high blood pressure in your family history doesn’t necessarily mean you cannot stop developing high blood pressure.  Although you are more at risk, maintaining healthy eating and exercising regularly will reduce your risk!

So you have high blood pressure… this doesn’t mean you are now committed to a lifetime of medications.  Simple changes to your lifestyle can help significantly lower your blood pressure without the need for medication.  But, be careful… cutting down on extra salt alone will not work alone as 75% of the salt we consume is hidden in processed foods.

Obesity, “is just being a bit overweight right?” Wrong!
Obesity affects 25% of the population in England.  Males are three times more likely to develop high blood pressure and unfortunately ladies, you are four times more likely!

“I had my blood pressure checked 10 years ago and it was OK then”.
Blood pressure testing should be checked at a minimum every 5 years.  However, people at risk – such as African or Caribbean decedents, older people or people who are overweight or obese – should be checked more frequently.  Blood pressures can be checked free of charge at some pharmacies, GP surgeries and some Private Ambulance providers offer this service.  You can also buy relatively inexpensive machines to use at home.

So stay smart, stay healthy and get your blood pressure checked regularly.

Click here to take the blood pressure quiz.