In the UK, around 1 in 5 people have high blood pressure - or hypertension. Since those with high blood pressure don't usually have any symptoms, many of them say they're not worried about it.
Blood pressure is the force exerted by blood on the walls of the arteries when the heart beats.
When measured, two readings are recorded. The second, called the diastolic, is the pressure whilst the heart is filling with blood again in preparation for the next contraction or heart beat. Blood pressure changes throughout the day, in particular, it increases during exercise and decreases during sleep. 1. have your blood pressure checked regularly every few years 2. reduce your salt intake 3. Although high blood pressure can cause headaches, dizziness, and problems with vision, the majority of people suffer no symptoms at all.