High blood pressure usually does not hurt. A cardiologist on the signs your body is already sending that you are missing.
Why 40 is a turning point
After 40 the blood vessels start losing elasticity, and blood pressure rises gradually rather than “suddenly”. One in three adults has hypertension and half of them do not know it — because 140/90 does not hurt.
Five signals worth paying attention to
- A morning headache at the back of the head — especially after sleep
- Ringing in the ears and “floaters” in front of the eyes
- Shortness of breath at usual effort — on the stairs, walking fast
- Unexplained fatigue and sleep problems
- A flushed face, swollen legs by the evening
What to do
Measure your blood pressure morning and evening for a week and keep a diary. If readings are above 135/85 two or three times — see a cardiologist: an ECG, a Holter if needed and simple blood tests. Treatment is not always pills: often less salt, proper sleep and 150 minutes of walking a week are enough.
Time for a check-up?
Book the article's author — our administrator will find a convenient time.