When we think of serious health problems, we often imagine symptoms like pain, fatigue, or fever. But what if one of the most dangerous conditions develops silently—without any warning signs? This is the case with high blood pressure, also known as hypertension, a condition often called the “silent killer.”
What is High Blood Pressure?
High blood pressure occurs when the force of blood against your artery walls is consistently too high. Over time, this pressure can damage blood vessels and vital organs such as the heart, brain, and kidneys.
Blood pressure is measured in millimeters of mercury (mmHg) and recorded as two numbers:
- Systolic pressure (top number): The pressure when the heart beats.
- Diastolic pressure (bottom number): The pressure when the heart rests between beats.
A normal reading is around 120/80 mmHg. Hypertension is diagnosed when:
- Systolic pressure is 140 mmHg or higher, or
- Diastolic pressure is 90 mmHg or higher, measured consistently over multiple readings.
A normal reading is around 120/80 mmHg. Readings consistently higher than 140/80 mmHg may indicate hypertension.
Why is it Called the “Silent Killer”?
Many people with high blood pressure experience no symptoms—even when their readings are dangerously high. Without routine screening, hypertension can go undetected for years. During this time, it can quietly cause:
- Heart attacks and heart failure
- Strokes
- Kidney damage
- Vision loss
- Cognitive decline and dementia
Who is at Risk?
Anyone can develop high blood pressure, but the risk increases with:
- Age (especially over 40)
- Family history of hypertension
- Sedentary lifestyle
- Unhealthy diet (especially high in salt)
- Smoking and excessive alcohol use
- Obesity or being overweight
- Chronic stress or sleep disorders
- Conditions like diabetes and kidney disease
How is High Blood Pressure Diagnosed?
High blood pressure is typically diagnosed using a blood pressure monitor during routine health check-ups. A single elevated reading doesn’t confirm hypertension; your doctor may recommend multiple readings over time or 24-hour monitoring.
What Can You Do to Manage or Prevent It?
1. Adopt a Heart-Healthy Lifestyle
- Reduce salt and processed foods in your diet
- Eat more fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
- Exercise regularly—at least 30 minutes most days
- Limit alcohol and avoid smoking
- Maintain a healthy weight
- Practice stress management techniques such as meditation or yoga
2. Monitor Your Blood Pressure
Keep track of your readings at home, especially if you’re at risk. Regular check-ups with your doctor help detect changes early.
3. Take Medications as Prescribed
In some cases, lifestyle changes alone aren’t enough. Your doctor may prescribe antihypertensive medications to keep your blood pressure within safe limits.
Take Action Before It’s Too Late
High blood pressure may be silent, but its consequences are loud and life-altering. Fortunately, with early detection and proper management, it is entirely controllable. At Dr. Michelle Liang Hui Fen’s clinic, we offer comprehensive blood pressure screening, lifestyle counseling, and chronic disease management to help you live a longer, healthier life.
