High blood pressure is a silent risk that often causes no symptoms, leading many to mistakenly stop their medication when they feel fine. Uncontrolled hypertension damages blood vessels over time, significantly increasing the danger of a sudden and severe stroke

High blood pressure is a silent risk that often causes no symptoms, leading many to mistakenly stop their medication when they feel fine. Uncontrolled hypertension damages blood vessels over time, significantly increasing the danger of a sudden and severe stroke

High blood pressure is a silent risk that often causes no symptoms, leading many to mistakenly stop their medication when they feel fine. Uncontrolled hypertension damages blood vessels over time, significantly increasing the danger of a sudden and severe stroke

“I feel perfectly fine. Why should I take a tablet every day?”

It is an understandable question. When you can work, exercise and manage a busy household without discomfort, taking medicine for an invisible problem can seem unnecessary. That is precisely the trap with high blood pressure: feeling well can hide a risk that is steadily building.

Hypertension usually causes no symptoms. You may have no headache, dizziness or tiredness while your blood vessels remain under excessive pressure. Waiting to feel unwell before checking your blood pressure means waiting for a warning that may never come.

Over time, uncontrolled pressure damages the arteries supplying the brain. It can contribute to blockages that interrupt blood flow or weaken vessels until they rupture. Both can cause a stroke, suddenly affecting speech, movement, memory or independence.

Another common misunderstanding is that a normal reading means hypertension has disappeared. If your pressure is controlled while taking medication, that often means the treatment is working. Stopping tablets because the numbers look good can allow it to rise again. Never change treatment without discussing it with your doctor.

Blood pressure also varies through the day. One reassuring reading cannot tell the whole story. Your doctor may recommend home measurements or, occasionally, monitoring over 24 hours.

At home, use a validated upper arm monitor with the correct cuff size. Sit quietly for five minutes, keep your feet flat and support your arm at heart level. Take two readings a minute apart and record them. A consistent record is more useful than checking repeatedly whenever you feel anxious.

Prevention need not begin with dramatic changes. Reduce salt, including the hidden salt in pickles, papad, packaged snacks and restaurant meals. Move regularly, avoid tobacco, limit alcohol and maintain a healthy weight. Continue prescribed medicines and follow up even when you feel well. Your blood pressure target should be agreed with your doctor, considering your overall health.

Controlling blood pressure substantially lowers stroke risk, but other factors, including diabetes, cholesterol and smoking, also need attention.

Finally, recognise the emergency signs: sudden facial drooping, arm weakness or difficulty speaking. Seek emergency care immediately, even if symptoms improve. Do not wait for a blood pressure reading before acting.

The reassuring thing about hypertension is that it is treatable. A simple check, followed by consistent care, can protect years of independent living. Feeling healthy is valuable. Knowing your blood pressure and keeping it under control helps you stay that way.

(The author is a consultant, Radiology and Interventional Neuroradiology, Manipal Hospital Kanakapura Road, Bengaluru)

The opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not purport to reflect the opinions or views of THE WEEK.

TAGS