High Blood Pressure (Hypertension)
What is It?
Your blood pressure is a measure of how hard your blood presses against the walls of your large arteries. High blood pressure (hypertension) is extremely common, affecting about 1 in 3 Australian adults. It is often called the ‘silent killer’ because it usually causes no symptoms until significant damage has occurred. Early diagnosis and treatment are key to bringing your blood pressure under control. Untreated hypertension can lead to heart attack, stroke, heart failure and kidney failure.
What are the symptoms?
High blood pressure usually causes no symptoms, which is why regular checks are essential. When blood pressure is severely elevated, symptoms may include headaches, dizziness, blurred vision, chest pain, shortness of breath, or nosebleeds. All adults should have their blood pressure checked regularly regardless of symptoms.
What are the causes?
At One Heart Centre our cardiologists screen for all causes of high blood pressure. Causes and contributing factors include:
- Lifestyle factors: High salt intake, excess alcohol, smoking, physical inactivity, obesity and stress.
- Age and genetics: Risk increases with age and family history of hypertension.
- Underlying conditions (secondary hypertension): Kidney disease, thyroid disorders, obstructive sleep apnoea and adrenal gland disorders.
- Medications: Certain medications including some pain relievers, decongestants, and oral contraceptives.
How is it investigated?
You are considered to have hypertension if your blood pressure readings are consistently above 140/90 (or lower targets if you have diabetes or kidney disease). Your One Heart Centre cardiologist will undertake a thorough assessment of your cardiovascular risk factors including age, diabetes, smoking, cholesterol and family history. You will need basic blood tests, urine tests, an ECG and usually an echocardiogram. A 24-hour Ambulatory Blood Pressure Monitor (gap applies) is invaluable in confirming the diagnosis and assessing treatment effectiveness.
What are the treatments?
At One Heart Centre our cardiologists have post-fellowship training in managing high blood pressure and will provide a personalised treatment plan for your hypertension. Treatment options include:
- Lifestyle changes: Adopting a DASH-style diet, reducing salt intake, regular aerobic exercise, weight loss, smoking cessation, and limiting alcohol.
- Medical therapy: Common medications include ACE inhibitors, angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs), calcium channel blockers, diuretics and beta blockers. Your cardiologist will guide you on the most appropriate choice.
- Ongoing monitoring: Regular home and clinic blood pressure monitoring to ensure targets are achieved and maintained.