Understanding Hypertension: Causes, Risks, and Prevention

Is High Blood Pressure a Silent Threat to your Health?

Imagine this—you feel fine, no major symptoms, yet your blood pressure is slowly creeping up, putting your heart, brain, and kidneys at risk. Hypertension, commonly known as high blood pressure, is often called the “silent killer” because it develops without noticeable symptoms. By the time it’s detected, serious health complications may already be underway.

At Amtan Medical, we believe that awareness, early diagnosis, and prevention can make all the difference when it comes to treating hypertension and guarding your long-term health.

What is Hypertension?

Hypertension happens when the pressure of blood on your artery walls is too high too often. This adds unnecessary pressure on your heart and blood vessels, raising your risk of heart disease, stroke, and kidney failure.

A blood pressure reading consists of two numbers:

• Systolic pressure (Top Number): Measures the pressure when your heart beats.
• Diastolic pressure (Bottom Number): Measures the pressure when your heart rests between beats.

Blood Pressure Categories

Category	Systolic (mmHg)	Diastolic (mmHg)
Normal	Below 120	Below 80
Elevated	120-129	Below 80
Hypertension Stage 1	130-139	80-89
Hypertension Stage 2	140+	90+
Hypertensive Crisis	180+	120+

(Source: Heart Foundation Australia)

What Causes High Blood Pressure?

Several factors make people have high blood pressure, including:

• Unhealthy Diet: A diet rich in salt, processed foods, and low in potassium can increase blood pressure.
• Lack of Exercise: Inactivity makes the heart weaker, and it becomes more difficult to pump blood.
• Obesity: Excess weight puts additional strain on the heart and arteries.
• Chronic Stress: Prolonged stress can trigger spikes in blood pressure.
• Excess Alcohol & Smoking: These lifestyle factors narrow down blood vessels and raise blood pressure in the long run.
• Family History & Age: Hereditary and aging factors raise the chances of hypertension.

Did you know? 

Hypertension ranks among the foremost causes of preventable deaths globally. Early testing and lifestyle adjustments can keep you one step ahead of potential complications.

Signs and Symptoms – Do You Have Hypertension?

Most people do not experience symptoms until blood pressure is so high that it is causing problems. Some might feel:

• Frequent headaches
• Dizziness or blurred vision
• Chest pain or shortness of breath
• Fatigue or irregular heartbeats

If you experience any of these symptoms, visit Amtan Medical for a comprehensive Health Assessment.

Preventing and Managing Hypertension

The good news? Hypertension can be prevented and managed with the proper way of living.

1. Prioritise a Heart-Healthy Diet

• Eat More: Fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and potassium-rich foods (such as bananas and spinach).
• Reduce: Processed foods, excessive salt, and sugary drinks.

Get advice from our Dietitian, Tess Hartley, at Pimpama City, Ormeau Family Practice and Pacific Pines on a personalised nutrition plan.

2. Stay Physically Active

• Exercise for at least 150 minutes per week. Brisk walking, swimming, and strength training can lower blood pressure.

Consult our Physiotherapists, Kunal Bhatt at Pimpama Junction and Ormeau Village or Enzzio Spryut, at Pimpama City and Ormeau Family Practice to become fit safely.

3. Stress & Mental Health Management

• Engage in relaxation strategies such as yoga, breathing, and meditation.

Seeking support for anxiety or stress? Our psychologists, Amy Pammenter, at Ormeau Village, Pimpama City and Ormeau Family Practice & Steven Kose, at Ormeau Village are here to help.

4. Get Regular Health Check-Ups

• Routine blood pressure monitoring helps detect issues early.

Schedule a check-up at Amtan Medical and take charge of your health.

5. Limit Alcohol & Quit Smoking

• Both can significantly increase blood pressure—consider cutting back for better heart health.

Hypertension can be managed – Take the First Step Today!

High blood pressure doesn’t have to control your life. By making informed choices, adopting healthier habits, and staying proactive with medical check-ups, you can reduce your risk and live a healthier, longer life.

Amtan Medical is committed to supporting your health journey. From preventative care and nutrition advice to physiotherapy and mental health support, we’re here for you every step of the way.

Visit any of our six convenient locations
Call us at 1300-426-826 or book online at Amtan Medical

Take control of your blood pressure—because a healthy heart means a healthier you!