High Blood Pressure: symptoms, self-care and when to get help
Checked against current published health guidance — last reviewed 2026-09-23. See how we check.
High blood pressure (hypertension) usually causes no symptoms but raises the risk of heart attack and stroke over time, which is why regular checks matter. A very high reading with symptoms like severe headache, chest pain, or vision changes needs urgent medical attention.
Overview
Blood pressure is the force of blood pushing against artery walls. High blood pressure is common and usually has no obvious symptoms, which is why it's often picked up during a routine check rather than because someone feels unwell.
Left unmanaged over years, it increases the risk of heart disease, stroke, and kidney problems — but it's very manageable with lifestyle changes and, where needed, medication.
What may help
- Reduce salt intake and eat a balanced diet with plenty of fruit and vegetables
- Stay physically active — regular movement helps lower blood pressure over time
- Limit alcohol and, if you smoke, quitting has a significant benefit
- Maintain a healthy weight and manage stress where you can
When to see a pharmacist or GP
- You've never had your blood pressure checked, or it's been a while
- A home or pharmacy reading is consistently raised
- You're prescribed blood pressure medication and have questions or side effects
- You have other risk factors (diabetes, family history, smoking) and want a fuller check
When it could be an emergency
- A very high reading together with severe headache, chest pain, breathlessness, or vision changes
- Sudden confusion, difficulty speaking, or weakness down one side (possible stroke — act immediately)
- Blood pressure that's markedly high and you feel seriously unwell
If any of these apply, don't wait — call your local emergency number (see emergency numbers by country, or Red Flags in the app), or go straight to your nearest emergency department.
Want more detail, tailored to your own situation?
Look up "High Blood Pressure" in the appCommon questions
What counts as "high" blood pressure?
Thresholds vary slightly by guideline and are best interpreted by a professional alongside your overall health, but persistently raised readings on repeated checks are generally what leads to a diagnosis and discussion of next steps.
Can high blood pressure be reversed?
Lifestyle changes can bring blood pressure down significantly, and for some people this is enough; others also need medication, often long-term, to keep it controlled.
Does high blood pressure cause symptoms?
Usually not — it's sometimes called a "silent" condition, which is why routine checks matter even when you feel completely well.
How often should I have my blood pressure checked?
Adults over 40 should have it checked at least every 5 years, and more often if they are at higher risk or have had a high reading before.
Can stress cause high blood pressure?
Stress can raise blood pressure temporarily. Long-term stress may contribute indirectly, for example through poor sleep, diet, alcohol or smoking.
Official sources
Related topics
High Cholesterol
What it means and lifestyle steps that help.
Type 2 Diabetes
Signs, everyday management, and emergency warning signs.
Stroke Signs (FAST)
Recognise a stroke with FAST and act immediately.
Chest Pain
Why it needs urgent attention and what to do.
General information only, last checked 2026-09-23 — not medical advice and not a diagnosis. This page doesn't cover every cause or every person's situation; for anything specific to you or someone in your care, speak to a pharmacist, GP, or other qualified professional. See how we check. Be Health Wise is part of the Be Wise family of apps.