High blood pressure means the pressure in your arteries is higher than it should be. Another name for high blood pressure is hypertension. … High blood pressure is a pressure of 130 systolic or higher, or 80 diastolic or higher, that stays high over time. 

There may be no signs or symptoms that tell you your blood pressure is too high. High blood pressure left untreated causes a range of associated illnesses including strokes and heart attacks, and can weaken blood vessels, and your kidneys.

SYMPTOMS – Often there are no symptoms. For very high blood pressure, people may experience severe headaches, visual changes, nause/vomiting, nosebleeds or even confusion. Other symptoms may include flushing, chest pain, shortness of breath, awareness of heavy heart beats and even feeling stressed or agitated.

What should my blood pressure targets be?

Normal- 120/80 mmHg
Elevated- 120-129/80mmHg
High- Stage 1- 130-139/80-89 mmHg
High- Stage 2- 140 and above/ 90 and above.

What do the numbers mean?

Top Number (Systolic) is the pressure in the arteries when the heart beats.

Bottom Number (Diastolic) is the pressure measured between heartbeats when the heart is relaxing.

Lifestyle changes that lower blood pressure:

1. Move More! Get regular physical activity.
2. Lose weight. Even a kilogram or two may make a big difference!
3. Focus on Nutrition. DASH, and diets with vegetables and less red meat.
4. Cut Salt. Aim for 1.5g of sodium per day or less.
5. Limit Alcohol. For men, not more than 2 standard drinks per day, and women 1, although several alcohol free days per week may also make a big difference from a weight point of view!
6. Don’t Smoke.
7. De-stress.