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More than a quarter of British adults suffer from high blood pressure, also called hypertension. But many sufferers do not know they have it, because it does not normally cause visible symptoms. However, when the blood pressure is very high for a long time, it can cause some symptoms. A symptom of severe hypertension is a condition called hypertensive retinopathy, which causes vision problems.
According to the Healthline medical website, when the blood pressure is too high, the blood vessel walls of the retina may thicken.
This can cause narrowing of the blood vessels and prevent the blood from reaching the retina.
Over time, high blood pressure can damage the blood vessels of the retina, limit the function of the retina and exert pressure on the optic nerve, resulting in hypertensive retinopathy.
The symptoms generally only appear when the disease has changed considerably, Healthline warns, but they can cause a decrease in vision, swelling of the eyes, broken blood vessels and double vision accompanied by headaches.
"Get medical help right away if your blood pressure is high and your vision is suddenly changing," Healthline said.
Prolonged hypertension is the leading cause of hypertensive retinopathy. Therefore, lowering your blood pressure can minimize your risk.
When the blood pressure is extremely high, one speaks of malignant hypertension or hypertensive crisis.
Malignant hypertension is considered a medical emergency because it can lead to serious health problems, such as heart attacks and strokes.
Malignant hypertension occurs when blood pressure rises sharply and strongly and usually results from poorly controlled high blood pressure.
In addition to hypertensive retinopathy, malignant hypertension can cause other symptoms, including nosebleeds, severe headache, and chest pain.
It is possible to prevent malignant hypertension by checking your blood pressure and controlling it if it is elevated.
According to the NHS, a normal blood pressure is between 90 / 60mmHg and 120 / 80mmHg.
Hypertension is considered to be equal to or greater than 140/90 mmHg. Malignant hypertension is considered to be equal to 180 / 120mmHg or more.
You can have your blood pressure checked by your general practitioner and some pharmacies.
It is also possible to buy a blood pressure monitor for home use, while some workplaces offer blood pressure monitoring services.
The NHS advises all adults over 40 to have their blood pressure checked at least every five years. "It's easy and could save your life," he said.
High Blood Pressure: Four Ways to Reduce Blood Pressure
High blood pressure puts extra stress on blood vessels and vital organs. It increases the risk of life-threatening heart disease, including heart attacks and strokes.
It is often possible to prevent high blood pressure and reduce blood pressure by making changes to your diet or lifestyle.
Balanced diet
Reducing the amount of salt in your diet is a great way to lower blood pressure.
Salt increases blood pressure and the more you eat, the higher your blood pressure will be.
Try to eat less than 6 g of salt a day, or the equivalent of a teaspoonful.
Alcohol
Blood pressure can increase if you regularly drink too much alcohol.
The people most likely to suffer from hypertension are those who regularly exceed the recommended weekly limits.
It is advisable for all adults to drink less than 14 units of alcohol per week.
Weightloss
If you are overweight, the heart must work harder to pump blood throughout the body, which increases blood pressure.
Losing only a few pounds could make a big difference to your blood pressure and your overall health.
Exercise
Staying active is one of the best ways to lower your blood pressure.
It helps you lose weight while keeping the heart and blood vessels in good condition.
All adults should aim to do at least 150 minutes of moderate intensity activity each week.
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