A health organization has warned that people with a common medical condition may face a significantly higher risk of stroke and heart attack. Fortunately, there are several effective ways to reduce this risk.

According to the UK’s National Health Service (NHS), high blood pressure—also known as hypertension—is a widespread condition that occurs when the force of blood against the walls of the arteries remains consistently too high.

Arteries are blood vessels responsible for carrying blood from the heart to the rest of the body. While a certain level of pressure is necessary to maintain healthy blood flow, excessive pressure can damage blood vessels and vital organs.

Over time, high blood pressure greatly increases the risk of cardiovascular diseases, including stroke and heart attack.

The NHS states that hypertension is usually diagnosed when blood pressure readings consistently exceed 140/90 mmHg.

What Causes High Blood Pressure?

So what are the main contributors to high blood pressure, and what can be done to lower the risk of heart attack and stroke?

Risk Factors for High Blood Pressure

According to the NHS, people at higher risk of developing hypertension include those who:

• Have kidney disease

• Have diabetes

• Have hormonal disorders such as Cushing’s syndrome (a condition where the body produces too much steroid hormone)

• Suffer from obstructive sleep apnea

• Use certain herbal remedies

• Take specific medications, such as oral contraceptives

The NHS advises: “If you are concerned that your medication may be affecting your blood pressure, speak to a healthcare professional.”

In addition, certain lifestyle habits can significantly increase the risk of high blood pressure, including:

• Eating a diet high in fat

• Consuming too much salt

• Lack of physical activity

• Being overweight or obese

• Smoking

• Drinking excessive amounts of alcohol

• Chronic stress

• Using certain recreational drugs

Symptoms of High Blood Pressure

One of the most concerning aspects of high blood pressure is that it often has no obvious symptoms. However, in rare cases, people may experience:

• Persistent headaches

• Blurred or double vision

• Frequent nosebleeds

• Shortness of breath

What Happens If High Blood Pressure Is Left Untreated?

If left untreated, high blood pressure can lead to serious and potentially life-threatening complications, including stroke and heart attack. It may also cause:

• Arterial blood clots

• Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA)

• Kidney disease

• Vascular dementia

7 Immediate Steps to Protect Your Blood Pressure

To reduce the risk of complications associated with high blood pressure, the NHS recommends the following actions:

1. Exercise regularly

2. Reduce alcohol consumption

3. Follow a healthy, low-fat diet

4. Limit salt intake

5. Aim to lose weight if you are overweight or obese

6. Reduce caffeine consumption

7. Try relaxation techniques such as yoga or meditation

Taking these steps early can significantly improve blood pressure control and protect long-term heart and brain health.