Complications and Risks of High Blood Pressure

Long-term high blood pressure silently damages blood vessels and organs. The risk rises with the height of the pressure and the number of years it is uncontrolled.

Heart

• Heart attack and angina
• Heart failure from the strain of pumping against high pressure
• Enlarged heart and irregular rhythms, including atrial fibrillation

Brain

• Stroke, which may be sudden and disabling
• Transient ischaemic attack (a "mini-stroke")
• Vascular dementia and memory decline

Kidneys

• Chronic kidney disease and, in some cases, kidney failure

Eyes

• Damage to the retina, blurred vision or vision loss

Blood vessels

• Aneurysm and aortic problems
• Poor circulation in the legs (peripheral artery disease)

Pregnancy

Pre-eclampsia and eclampsia, poor growth of the baby and early delivery.

Emergency warning signs (call 112 or 102)

• Sudden severe headache, confusion or seizure
• Chest pain or severe shortness of breath
• Weakness, numbness, drooping face or trouble speaking
• Sudden vision loss
• A very high reading with any of these symptoms

Reducing the risk

Control pressure with regular checks, lifestyle change and medicines as prescribed, and manage diabetes, cholesterol and smoking.

Key point

Most complications are preventable with steady control.

Before your appointment

Bring your home blood pressure log, with dates and times. List all medicines and supplements, including painkillers, herbal products and any Ayurvedic preparations. Note symptoms such as headache, chest pain or breathlessness, family history, salt intake, alcohol, sleep and any pregnancy plans. Ask about your target pressure, tests, medicines and the warning signs that mean you should call 112 or 102.