Modern Australian
Men's Weekly

.

The Dangers of Uncontrolled High Blood Pressure



High blood pressure has been scientifically proven to be one of the leading mortality risk factors in the western world. This condition is commonly known in the medical industry as the 'silent killer'. Many sufferers do not know that they have elevated blood pressure levels, that are considered in the risk zone, until it is too late. Despite the seriousness of this illness, there are many healthy lifestyle choices that sufferers can embrace to assist with managing and lowering their blood pressure to healthy levels.

This disease occurs over time when your blood flows through your arteries at a higher than normal pressure. A sphygmomanometer, also known as a blood pressure meter, is used to measure blood pressure. When your blood pressure reading is performed by a medical professional, they will monitor two readings from the sphygmomanometer – the systolic (the blood pressure that occurs when the heart is pumping blood) and the diastolic (the blood pressure that occurs when the heart is filling with blood). Typically, a healthy heart reading for most adults will be 120 over 80 millimeters of mercury or shown as 120/80 mm Hg.

It is important to understand that a one-off 'high' reading, or the occasional high reading, does not constitute a high blood pressure diagnosis. Throughout our lives, we face various positive and negative circumstances that will affect our well-being, and these events will have a temporary effect on our health. Only after a sustained period, when your doctor regularly checks and records your blood pressure, will the disease be diagnosed. One key aspect of hypertension is that sufferers will usually not show any symptoms. This is markedly different from other ailments that will exhibit one or more symptoms and make you aware of the need for medical treatment, such as a repeated cough and sore throat, which we associate with the common flu.

For sufferers with this disease, the health risks are substantial if left undiagnosed, and hence untreated. The major risks are as follows:

Family History:

If heart disease is prevalent in your family history, then unfortunately, you are at higher risk. Medical genetic studies have provided most of our understanding of blood pressure, and where it comes from, so the findings are profound.

Age:

As we age, our arteries and blood vessels will thicken and harden, which contributes to elevated blood pressure levels.

Lifestyle:

Smoking, drinking too much alcohol, and (continuously) eating the wrong food-types will increase the risks associated with your blood pressure.

The good news is that simple lifestyle changes and choices you make can decrease these risk factors.

Healthy Heart Food/ Diet:

There are diets that your doctor can recommend that have been medically proven to lower blood pressure. One such diet is the Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension, or DASH, eating plan.

Weight and Exercise:

Ensure that you strive for a weight, or weight range, that is suitable for your age: your medical professional will assist you with this. Achieving and sustaining your weight will require an exercise program that your doctor can also help you with.

Lifestyle:

Quitting smoking and reducing your alcohol intake are choices that will reduce your risk factors. Managing your stress and ensuring you get plenty of sleep will also reduce the likelihood of high blood pressure.

Prescribed Medications:

If, despite these lifestyle changes, your blood pressure remains high, you may be prescribed medication. There is a wide range of medications that your doctor can prescribe for you, each with their own pros and cons. Exactly how each drug will work will depend on your blood pressure history, age, sex, and race. Any other existing medical conditions will also need to be considered.

Once you have adopted a high blood pressure plan, taking your prescribed medications, monitoring your blood pressure, and making lifestyle changes, will all help you reach and maintain a healthy blood pressure.

Health Features

TPD Claims & Super: What Does It All Mean?

Many Australians hear the term "TPD" in relation to their superannuation and feel completely lost. If you're scratching your head, wondering what it means or whether you might have this...

Psychologists Explore Gestalt Vs Schema Therapy for PTSD Treatment

Recent research has revealed that in 2022, 1 in 9 Australians experienced post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). For some, this can significantly impact their quality of life.  To better support clients with...

Grinding & Jaw Soreness: Signs You Might Need Night Guards and How We Protect Enamel

Waking with a tight jaw, tender muscles, or a dull temple headache is more than a bad night’s sleep. Many Australians grind or clench their teeth during sleep, a condition...

Invisible Braces vs Traditional Braces: Which Is Best for Adults?

Straightening teeth as an adult is common in Australia, and the options are better than ever. The two main choices are clear aligners, also called invisible braces in Melbourne and...

Smoking, Vaping, and Healing: How Nicotine Affects Sockets and What you can do About it

Nicotine and oral surgery are a poor mix. After an wisdom teeth removal in Sydney, your body needs a stable blood clot and steady blood flow to rebuild the socket...

Titanium and Bone: How Dental Implants Become Part of the Jaw

Dental implants replace missing teeth by anchoring a metal fixture in the jaw and fitting a crown on top. Their success rests on a biological event called osseointegration, where living...

TPD Claims & Super: What Does It All Mean?

Many Australians hear the term "TPD" in relation to their superannuation and feel completely lost. If you're scratching your head, wondering what it...

What Does Breastfeeding Feel Like? A Guide for New Moms

Frequently, numerous new mothers wonder, "What does breastfeeding feel like?" The feeling is different for each individual - a few describe it as a ...

Best Nail Care Routine for Frequent Nail Polish Wearers

For many people, nail polish is more than a beauty statement – it’s part of their everyday routine. Whether you love bold colours, chic neutrals...

Reinventing Research: How E-Libraries Are Changing Education Forever

A New Chapter for Learning For centuries libraries stood as temples of knowledge filled with shelves that smelled of dust and paper. Today the same...

Psychologists Explore Gestalt Vs Schema Therapy for PTSD Treatment

Recent research has revealed that in 2022, 1 in 9 Australians experienced post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). For some, this can significantly im...

Beyond Sunscreen: Building a Sun-Smart Culture in Modern Australia

Australia’s sun-soaked lifestyle is a defining part of its national identity. From beaches and sports fields to weekend barbecues and bushwalks, t...

What is Power BI & Why Should Your Business Use It?

In today's data-driven world, businesses are constantly searching for ways to gain a competitive edge. One tool that has emerged as a game-changer i...

From Service to Strength: How Aussie Veterans Are Rebuilding Their Lives with Everyday Support

Life after military service can bring new challenges. From physical limitations to mental health hurdles, many Australian veterans find everyday hou...

The Best Times of Year to Buy a Caravan

If you're shopping for caravans for sale, timing matters almost as much as the layout and features you desire. The calendar shapes price, stock and ...

The Growing Demand for Smart Living Through Home Automation

Technology has reshaped how we communicate, work, and travel—but now, it’s also changing the way we live at home. The rise of home automation i...

Beyond Clicks and Likes: Why Many Small Businesses in Australia Still Aren’t Leveraging Digital Marketing in 2025

Introduction In 2025, online marketing has become the driving force behind business growth for companies of all sizes. Yet, despite its proven effect...

Lighting Shop Perth: Your Comprehensive Guide to Choosing the Right Lighting Solutions

Lighting is a fundamental element in defining the ambiance, functionality, and aesthetic appeal of any space. Whether you are renovating your home, ...

Private Booze Cruisers – The New Must-Have Toy for Cashed Up Millennials

Did you hear that your 30s are the new 20s? We’ve finally rocked up that adult money and now it’s time to play with it. I was going for a walk ...

Grinding & Jaw Soreness: Signs You Might Need Night Guards and How We Protect Enamel

Waking with a tight jaw, tender muscles, or a dull temple headache is more than a bad night’s sleep. Many Australians grind or clench their teeth ...

Circular Interior Design: Furnishing with Salvaged & Reclaimed Materials

Circular interior design is gradually making its way from niche circles into mainstream Australian homes. At its core, this approach revolves around...

Invisible Braces vs Traditional Braces: Which Is Best for Adults?

Straightening teeth as an adult is common in Australia, and the options are better than ever. The two main choices are clear aligners, also called i...

Smoking, Vaping, and Healing: How Nicotine Affects Sockets and What you can do About it

Nicotine and oral surgery are a poor mix. After an wisdom teeth removal in Sydney, your body needs a stable blood clot and steady blood flow to rebu...

Titanium and Bone: How Dental Implants Become Part of the Jaw

Dental implants replace missing teeth by anchoring a metal fixture in the jaw and fitting a crown on top. Their success rests on a biological event ...