Everyone should ‘know their numbers’, Dr Swift says (Image: Getty)
Millions of Britons are living with high blood pressure that increases their risk of a wide range of deadly health conditions including heart attack, stroke, kidney failure, heart failure and vascular dementia. And many are completely unaware that they are in the danger zone. Dr Pauline Swift, chair of blood pressure UK, says high blood pressure — or hypertension — is “often called the silent killer because most people will not feel ill or notice anything is wrong”.
She added: “Around one in three adults in the UK has high blood pressure, and latest estimates suggest around 16 million people are affected, with nearly 5 million unaware they have it. That is why everyone should know their numbers, whatever their age, because the only reliable way to know if your blood pressure is high is to have it checked.” While hypertension often has no symptoms, there are some warning signs which Dr Swift has shared with the Express.
1. Headaches
A throbbing headache typically affecting both sides of the head can be a sign of a hypertensive crisis. This is a sudden, severe spike in blood pressure when readings soar to 180/120mmHg or higher.
Dr Swift said: “Recurring headaches can sometimes be linked to very high blood pressure, although headaches are common and can have many causes.
“If you are getting headaches more often than usual, particularly alongside other symptoms, it is sensible to get your blood pressure checked.”
2. Vision changes
The eyes are full of tiny, delicate blood vessels that are extremely vulnerable to damage caused by high blood pressure.
Optometrists will often look at the blood vessels in the eye during routine checks to catch early signs of harm before permanent vision loss occurs.
Dr Swift said: “Blurred vision or changes to eyesight can also be a warning sign, because very high blood pressure can put strain on the small blood vessels in the eyes. Any sudden change in vision should be taken seriously and checked urgently.”
3. Chest pain
Chest pain is an alarming symptom, as it could also be a sign of a medical emergency such as a heart attack.
When high blood pressure is the cause, pain is usually side effect of the strain on the heart muscle. Blood pressure spikes can also cause acute chest pain.
Dr Swift said: “Chest pain or tightness should never be ignored. High blood pressure puts extra strain on the heart and arteries, and chest symptoms can be a sign that the heart is under pressure or that something more serious is happening.”
Chest pain should never be ignored, Dr Swift says (Image: Getty)
4. Breathlessness
Breathlessness linked to high blood pressure can indicate that the cardiovascular system is struggling to keep up with the body’s demands.
It can be linked to a lack of oxygen reaching the heart through restricted arteries, a severe spike in blood pressure, or the development of heart failure.
Dr Swift said: “Breathlessness, especially if it comes on suddenly or feels unusual for you, can also be a sign that the heart is struggling. It does not automatically mean high blood pressure, but it is a symptom that should always be followed up.
Other possible signs
Dr Swift said: “Some people also report nosebleeds, dizziness or feeling generally unwell when their blood pressure is very high, but these are not reliable signs on their own.
“The key message is simple and that’s don’t wait for symptoms. Get your blood pressure checked, because knowing your numbers could save your life.”
