Blood pressure is a measurement of your risk for hypertension and heart disease.

The heart’s pumping action makes the blood exert pressure against the walls of the artery. As the artery walls are elastic, they can expand or contract to maintain blood pressure at normal levels.

High blood pressure indicates that the heart is working harder than it should and the arteries are under great strain. High blood pressure is a "silent killer". You may feel well while it causes damage to your body’s organs. Uncontrolled high blood pressure leads to severe complications like heart attack and stroke. Therefore, it is important to control your blood pressure to reduce the risk of developing these complications.

Check your Blood Pressure Status:

If your blood pressure is borderline or high, see your doctor.

• Follow your doctor’s advice and go for regular check-ups.
• Take your medicine to control your blood pressure, regularly.
• Inform your doctor if you experience side effects from taking the medicine. Do not stop the medication on your own.
• Eat less salt and taste food before adding salt and sauce. Avoid foods that are pre-salted, like eggs, nuts, meats and fish.
• Use herbs and spices for seasoning. Avoid tinned and preserved foods.
• Quit smoking.
• Reduce your alcohol consumption.
• Learn to manage stress effectively.
• Maintain a healthy weight range.
• If you have a normal blood pressure and are over 40 years of age, you should have your blood pressure checked once a year.