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Linked Health Information Part of Taking Care of Me — an MCCSA program
MCCSA — Multicultural Communities Council of South Australia

20. High Blood Pressure

What is High Blood Pressure?

High blood pressure, or hypertension, happens when blood pushes too forcefully against blood vessel walls. This puts increased stress on your heart, blood vessels and kidneys, damaging them and increasing your risk of heart disease, kidney failure, stroke and dementia.

Blood pressure has two numbers.

  • The top number (called systolic) shows the pressure in your blood vessels when your heart is pumping.
  • The bottom number (called diastolic) shows the pressure when your heart is resting between beats.
  • Optimal blood pressure is usually 120/80 mmHg or below.
  • Normal blood pressure above 120/80 to 129/80
  • High Normal is a systolic 130-139, or diastolic 80-89
  • Mild Hypertension is a systolic of 140-159 or diastolic of 90-99
  • Severe Hypertension is a systolic of ≥ 180 or diastolic ≥ 110

Why Should I Care?

High blood pressure is a major risk factor for heart attacks, heart failure, strokes, dementia and kidney failure. The danger is that it often has no symptoms, making it easy to overlook until serious damage has occurred.

How Do I Know If I Have It?

High blood pressure rarely causes noticeable symptoms, so the only way to know if you have

it is by getting it checked. You may experience headaches, but even that isn’t guaranteed. Checking your blood pressure is quick, simple, and painless. You can have it checked by your GP, or you can even do it yourself. Blood pressure machines are available at most pharmacies and inexpensive – it is a good idea to own one, and check it at home when you are seated and relaxed.

When Should I Start Getting Blood Pressure Checked?

  • Ages 18-35: If you’re healthy with no risk factors, get your blood pressure checked at

least once every 2-5 years.

  • Ages 40 and older: You should have your blood pressure checked each year, regardless of past readings.
  • High Risk: If you have risk factors (like high cholesterol, diabetes, obesity, or a family history of high blood pressure), more frequent checks may be needed.

Who’s at Greater Risk?

      • Elevated blood pressure (120-129/80-89 mm Hg)
      • Family history of high blood pressure
      • Other cardiovascular risk factors (e.g., high cholesterol, diabetes)
      • Being overweight or obese
      • Men of African descent
      • Older age

What actions can I take on my own to prevent or treat high blood pressure?

      • Eat less salt: Reducing salt intake helps lower blood pressure.
      • Avoid processed foods and eat plenty of vegetables and salad items
      • Exercise regularly: Regular aerobic and resistance exercise helps keep blood pressure in check.
      • Limit alcohol: Cutting back can have significant health benefits.
      • Quit smoking: Smoking increases your risk of high blood pressure and heart disease.
      • Take prescribed medications: If your doctor recommends medication, make sure to follow their advice.

High blood pressure may not show immediate symptoms, but it can lead to severe health issues over time. Regular monitoring, especially as you get older or if you have risk factors, is crucial. Taking care of your blood pressure today will help you stay active and healthy for years to come—so don’t delay, get checked!

If you need more information or help, speak with your doctor or call Healthdirect on 1800 022 222.