Why it is called silent

High blood pressure (hypertension) usually causes no symptoms, so many people do not know they have it. Over the years it damages the blood vessels and can lead to stroke, heart attack, kidney disease and loss of vision. The good news is that it is easy to check and can be controlled.

Check it regularly

A blood pressure check takes only a minute and does not hurt. Adults should have their blood pressure measured at least once a year, and more often if they are overweight, have diabetes, are pregnant, or have high blood pressure in the family. A single high reading does not always mean you have hypertension; a health worker will check it again.

Eat less salt

Too much salt is one of the main causes of high blood pressure. Adults should eat less than one level teaspoon of salt a day in total, including the salt that is already in food.

  • Use less salt when cooking, and do not add salt at the table.
  • Limit salty foods such as qurut, pickles (torshi), salty cheese, salty snacks, and ready-made soup powders and stock cubes.
  • Flavour food with herbs, garlic, onion, lemon and spices instead.

Other healthy habits

  • Eat more vegetables, fruit, lentils and beans, and less fried and fatty food.
  • Be active for about 30 minutes on most days; brisk walking is enough.
  • Keep a healthy weight.
  • Do not smoke or use naswar.
  • If you are given medicine, take it every day as prescribed, even when you feel well. Do not stop it without talking to your doctor.

When to see a doctor

See a doctor to have your blood pressure checked, and for regular follow-up if you have hypertension. Go to the nearest hospital immediately if you or someone near you has sudden weakness or numbness of the face, arm or leg (especially on one side of the body), difficulty speaking, sudden loss of vision, a sudden severe headache, chest pain, or severe shortness of breath. These can be signs of a stroke or heart attack, and every minute counts.

For help with your blood pressure, book a consultation with a doctor in the app or visit a clinic.