High blood pressure, or hypertension, is often called the “silent” risk factor, because it usually causes no symptoms at all, while quietly increasing the risk of serious heart and vascular disease. It is very common, with prevalence increases with age. In Singapore, around 50% of adult older than 50 years old have hypertension, rising to 80% in those older than 80 years old.
Why hypertension is dangerous
Over time, the extra force of blood against the artery walls damages blood vessels and strains the heart and other organs. This raises the risk of heart attack, stroke, heart failure and kidney disease.
Why it is so often missed
Because hypertension rarely produces symptoms, many people are unaware they have it. The only reliable way to know is to have your blood pressure measured, ideally tracked accurately over time.
Getting an accurate diagnosis
A single clinic reading can be misleading. 24-hour ambulatory blood pressure monitoring captures your true average and how your pressure behaves through the day and night. One can check blood pressure easily at home using monitor available over the counter.
Managing high blood pressure
The good news is that hypertension is highly treatable. Lifestyle measures such as reducing salt, alcohol moderation, staying active, maintaining a healthy weight help, and where medication is needed, it is safe and effective. Speak to a cardiologist about the right blood pressure target for you.
