Hypertension (High BP)

Overview

Often called the 'silent killer', hypertension increases the risk of heart attack, stroke and kidney disease. Most people experience no symptoms until complications appear.

Common symptoms

• • Often no symptoms
• • Headaches in severe cases
• • Dizziness or chest discomfort

Causes & risk factors

• • Excess salt intake
• • Stress and poor sleep
• • Obesity
• • Family history

Prevention

• • Reduce salt and processed foods
• • Maintain healthy weight
• • Limit alcohol; avoid smoking
• • Manage stress; exercise regularly