High blood pressure can develop at any age, often without warning signs. A Mayo Clinic Healthcare physician explains why early screening, lifestyle changes and timely treatment are essential.
High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, is often thought of as a condition linked to older age. But its prevalence among people in early and mid-adulthood has been rising globally, making early awareness and prevention increasingly important.
According to Dr. Bianca Bandarra, M.B.B.S., General Practitioner and Executive Health Physician at Mayo Clinic Healthcare in London, hypertension can quietly damage the body over many years if it is not detected and treated early.
High blood pressure occurs when the force of blood pushing against the walls of the arteries remains consistently too high. As a result, the heart has to work harder to pump blood throughout the body. Over time, this increased pressure can affect major organs and raise the risk of serious health complications.
If left untreated, hypertension may increase the risk of heart attack, heart failure, stroke, kidney disease, eye problems, dementia and metabolic syndrome, a group of conditions that can also raise the risk of diabetes.
A Silent Condition with Serious Consequences
One of the challenges with high blood pressure is that it often develops without symptoms. Many people may have hypertension without realising it.
“If high blood pressure isn’t treated, it can damage blood vessels and organs over many years,” Dr. Bandarra said. “Because of that, we need to be proactive about prevention and early diagnosis. A simple blood pressure check is an important screening tool.”
People with conditions such as diabetes, kidney disease or a family history of hypertension may need more frequent monitoring. Those with one or both parents affected by high blood pressure may also benefit from discussing home blood pressure monitoring with their healthcare provider.
While hypertension usually does not cause symptoms, very high blood pressure readings may sometimes be linked to warning signs.
“Very high readings can sometimes be associated with headaches, especially in a hypertensive crisis,” Dr. Bandarra said. “Some people may also feel pressure or discomfort behind their eyes.”
Other possible symptoms may include blurred vision, chest pain, palpitations, nosebleeds, shortness of breath, fatigue or feeling generally unwell. However, these symptoms are not specific to hypertension and may have other causes. Medical attention should be sought promptly if symptoms are new, severe or concerning.
Lifestyle Factors Can Influence Risk
Lifestyle can play a major role in the development and management of high blood pressure.
Risk factors that may increase the chance of hypertension include being overweight or having obesity, tobacco use, alcohol use, high stress levels, eating too much salt, low potassium intake and not getting enough physical activity.
At the same time, several lifestyle habits may help reduce risk. These include regular exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, following a heart-healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables and whole grains, managing stress, avoiding tobacco and alcohol, and getting adequate sleep.
However, lifestyle is not the only factor.
“Some people may do all the right things and still develop hypertension,” Dr. Bandarra said. “That’s because genetics also play a role. We can take steps to prevent it from getting worse.”
Treating Hypertension Early
Treatment for high blood pressure usually involves a combination of healthy lifestyle changes and, when necessary, medication. Even when hypertension has a genetic component, lifestyle choices remain an important part of long-term management.
Healthcare professionals may also recommend tests such as blood tests, urine tests and an electrocardiogram to assess overall health, check for organ damage and identify related conditions.
Home monitoring can also be useful when done correctly.
“Use a validated device with the correct cuff size and follow proper technique,” Dr. Bandarra said. “Raising awareness about high blood pressure for yourself, your friends and your family can make a real difference.”
For people in Qatar and across the region, where busy lifestyles, stress, diet and reduced physical activity can influence long-term health, regular blood pressure checks can be a simple but powerful step toward prevention.
Early diagnosis allows people to take action before complications develop. With routine screening, healthier lifestyle choices and appropriate medical care, hypertension can be managed effectively and its risks reduced.
