Hypertension (High Blood Pressure): symptoms, causes & treatment in Nigeria
Also known as high BP, high blood pressure.
This page is general health information, not a diagnosis. Always consult a licensed clinician about your own health.
Overview
Hypertension means the pressure of blood in your arteries stays too high, silently straining the heart, brain, kidneys and eyes. Roughly one in three Nigerian adults has it, and most feel completely fine — which is why it is called a silent killer. Regular BP checks are the only way to catch it.
Symptoms
Usually no symptoms at all
Headaches (occasionally, when very high)
Dizziness
Blurred vision
Nosebleeds (rare)
Chest discomfort or breathlessness in severe cases
Causes & risk factors
Family history of hypertension
High salt intake (including seasoning cubes and processed foods)
Obesity and physical inactivity
Stress, smoking and heavy alcohol use
Increasing age
Treatment & self-care
Treatment combines daily blood-pressure tablets your doctor selects with less salt, more fruits and vegetables, regular exercise, weight control and limited alcohol. The medicines are taken every day, even when you feel well — stopping when you "feel fine" is how strokes happen. Check your BP regularly and keep follow-up appointments.
See a doctor urgently if
BP readings consistently 140/90 or higher
Severe headache with very high BP
Chest pain, breathlessness or palpitations
Sudden weakness, slurred speech or facial droop
Swollen legs or reduced urine
Frequently asked questions
What are the first signs of Hypertension (High Blood Pressure)?
Early signs often include usually no symptoms at all, headaches (occasionally, when very high), dizziness. Symptoms vary from person to person, so a proper assessment by a doctor is the only way to be sure.
Can Hypertension (High Blood Pressure) be treated?
Treatment combines daily blood-pressure tablets your doctor selects with less salt, more fruits and vegetables, regular exercise, weight control and limited alcohol. The medicines are taken every day, even when you feel well — stopping when you "feel fine" is how strokes happen. Check your BP regularly and keep follow-up appointments.
When should I see a doctor about Hypertension (High Blood Pressure)?
See a doctor promptly if you notice: bp readings consistently 140/90 or higher; severe headache with very high bp; chest pain, breathlessness or palpitations; sudden weakness, slurred speech or facial droop; swollen legs or reduced urine.
Talk to the right specialist
Hypertension (High Blood Pressure) is usually handled by cardiology. See an online cardiology doctor in minutes on GoDoctor.