What Is the Main Cause of High Blood Pressure?

High blood pressure (aka hypertension) is very common among older adults in the UK. The most common high blood pressure causes come down to a variety of factors which, when combined, can cause high blood pressure. It is commonly referred to as the ‘silent killer’ because it doesn’t cause any physical symptoms.

For this reason, regular checkups are crucial, especially if you are at high risk. High blood pressure can be life-threatening if left untreated. Exercise, following a high blood pressure diet, and medication can help reduce hypertension significantly.

To learn more about high blood pressure causes, high blood pressure symptoms, and what a high blood pressure diet is and how it works, keep reading.

The Primary High Blood Pressure Causes

The most common high blood pressure causes include:

●     Unhealthy eating patterns (including a high-sodium diet).

●     Lack of exercise and activity.

●     High consumption of alcohol. 

●     Kidney disease.

●     Diabetes.

●     Sleep apnoea.

●     Thyroid and hormone conditions.

●     Lupus.

High Blood Pressure Symptoms

In most cases, hypertension doesn’t cause any visible symptoms in its early stages. You could have high blood pressure for years and not show any high blood pressure symptoms. For this reason, it’s important to get your blood pressure checked regularly. Blood pressure testing in London is available at all Pearl Chemist Group branches throughout South London.

It isn’t until high blood pressure hits the hypertensive crisis state that symptoms start to appear. When your blood pressure is 180/120 mmHg or higher, you may experience symptoms like nose bleeds, heart palpitations, or headaches – at which time you need immediate medical attention. If left untreated for a long period, hypertension can lead to heart disease, heart attack, and stroke – which can be fatal.

High Blood Pressure Diet

If you have been diagnosed with high blood pressure, you can reverse hypertension by following the DASH diet which is a high blood pressure diet that focuses on eating vegetables, fruits, whole grains, low-fat dairy products, fish, poultry, beans, and nuts. It also limits foods with salt, sugar, and saturated fats. The DASH diet is very effective at lowering high blood pressure, especially when combined with regular exercise, and medication (if needed).

Visit Pearl Chemist Group in South London for Blood Pressure Testing in Merton

Getting blood pressure testing in Merton is fast and convenient – no appointment is needed, and walk-ins are welcome at each of our Pearl Chemist Group branches in South London. In addition to Merton, you can also get blood pressure testing in Morden and Streatham.