Western Cape residents have been encouraged to regularly check their blood pressure as they may not know whether it is at an unhealthy level, and could lead to serious long term health complications.

This is the message from the Provincial Department of Health and Wellness on World Hypertension Day, 17 May.

Nurse Verna Jacobs, who leads a hypertension support group at the Elsies River Community Health Centre, says patients must ensure they go for regular check-ups as hypertension is a silent killer.

Below Sr Jacobs expands on 4 common myths related to Hypertension:

MYTH: High blood pressure is not serious and only affects older people

FACT: “Hypertension is a serious condition and should not be ignored,” says Sr Jacobs.

“High blood pressure can affect anyone, including children. It increases the risk of heart and brain disease and can have serious health implications if left untreated or uncontrolled.”

Among other complications, uncontrolled hypertension can cause serious damage to the heart. This can lead to chest pain, heart attack or heart failure.

Have your blood pressure and glucose levels checked at least once a year and more often if you have a family history of chronic diseases, such as hypertension and diabetes.

MYTH: High blood pressure can’t be prevented

FACT: Some lifestyle habits can increase your blood pressure. In the same way, other habits can reduce your blood pressure. Risk factors include unhealthy diets (excessive salt consumption, a diet high in saturated fat and trans fats, low intake of fruits and vegetables), physical inactivity, consumption of tobacco and alcohol.

Sr Jacobs explains: “Hypertension can be prevented and managed through a healthy lifestyle. A healthy lifestyle includes healthy eating and exercise. Avoiding eating certain foods to improve your health. This include reducing your salt intake. Salt intake of less than 5 grams per day (just under a teaspoon) for adults helps to reduce blood pressure and risk of cardiovascular disease, stroke and coronary heart attack. A balanced diet includes all food groups in your diet, these food groups include starch, protein, fat, fruit, and vegetables. Cut down on sugary treats and processed foods.”

In addition, being overweight or having obesity may increase you risk for high blood pressure, but help is available. Talk to a healthcare worker about your diet and reaching a healthy weight.

Genetic factors can also play a role in high blood pressure, heart disease, and other related conditions. People with family members diagnosed with high blood pressure are at risk of developing the disease and should therefore be mindful and should go for regular check-ups.

MYTH: You won’t need to complete treatment if you feel better after a few weeks

FACT: If you receive medication, it is important to take it to complete treatment as recommended by a healthcare worker. Do your best to implement healthy lifestyle habits recommended by your nurse or doctor, such as exercising regularly. “As soon a patient is diagnosed, treatment will start. A healthy lifestyle and taking your medication will help to keep your blood pressure at a healthy level. Therefore, it greatly reduces your risk of heart and kidney disease,” says Sr Jacobs.

Changing your lifestyle can help control and manage high blood pressure. Ask a healthcare worker about the best blood pressure treatment for you.

MYTH: You will know if you have high blood pressure

FACT: Hypertension is called the “silent killer” for a reason. “Many people with hypertension are unaware that they have the condition and may not display symptoms,” says Sr Jacobs.

Some patients may display symptoms which can include early morning headaches, nosebleeds, irregular heart rhythms, vision changes, and buzzing in the ears. Severe hypertension can cause fatigue, nausea, vomiting, confusion, anxiety, chest pain, and muscle tremors.

It is important that you have a healthcare worker measure your blood pressure to detect hypertension. The process is easy, painless and free at our clinics.