High blood pressure: the silent risk worth checking
Heart health · 10 June 2026 · 5 min read
High blood pressure, or hypertension, is common and often causes no symptoms until it has already done harm. The good news is that a simple check takes minutes, and once you know, it can be managed well.
Why it matters
Blood pressure that stays high puts strain on the heart and blood vessels over time. Left unchecked, it raises the risk of stroke, heart disease, and kidney problems. Because it rarely causes symptoms, many people do not know they have it.
Who should get checked
- Every adult, at least once a year
- Anyone with a parent or sibling who has hypertension
- People who are overweight, or who smoke
- Women during pregnancy, at every antenatal visit
Simple steps that help
- Use less salt in cooking and at the table
- Eat more fruit and vegetables, and less fried and fatty food
- Stay active, even a brisk daily walk helps
- If you smoke, stop, and keep alcohol low
- Take any prescribed medicine every day, even when you feel well
It only takes a minute
We check blood pressure at almost every visit. If you have not had yours checked this year, ask us, it is quick, painless, and could protect your life.
A note from us
This article is general information, not a substitute for seeing a clinician. If you are worried about your health, or your child's, please come in or call us.
Have a health worry?
Do not wait on it. Book a visit, or talk it through with our team.