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High Blood Pressure: Signs, Risks and How to Control It
High blood pressure is called the “silent killer” because many people feel nothing until they have a stroke or heart problem. A quick check and simple habits can protect you and your family.
❤️ What is high blood pressure?
Blood pressure is the force of blood pushing against the walls of your blood vessels. When it stays too high (hypertension), your heart has to work harder, and over time this can damage the heart, brain, kidneys and eyes. A reading of 140/90 mmHg or higher on repeated checks is generally considered high, though doctors may use lower targets for some people.
Often silentmany people have no symptoms
140/90commonly used as the high threshold
Free or cheapto check at pharmacies and clinics
⚠️ Who is at higher risk?
Adults over 40, though younger people can have it too
People with a family history of high blood pressure
Too much salt, seasoning cubes and processed food
Overweight and little physical activity
Heavy drinking and smoking
Diabetes, kidney disease and long-term stress
🚨 Possible warning signs
Most people have no symptoms. When blood pressure is very high, some people get severe headaches, blurred vision, chest pain, shortness of breath, nosebleeds or confusion.
⚠️
Stroke signs — act fast
Sudden weakness or numbness of the face, arm or leg, slurred speech, or a drooping face can be a stroke. Go to a hospital immediately — every minute counts.
Use fewer seasoning cubes and less salt; flavour food with herbs, ginger, garlic and pepper.
Big impact
🥬
Eat more plants
Vegetables, fruits, beans and whole grains help lower blood pressure.
Daily
🚶🏾
Move every day
Brisk walking for about 30 minutes most days is a great start.
Daily
⚖️
Manage your weight
Even a small weight loss can lower your readings.
Over time
🚭
Limit alcohol, stop smoking
Both raise blood pressure and harm the heart.
Important
😴
Sleep and stress
Good sleep and ways to relax help your heart.
Wellbeing
✅
About medication
If a doctor prescribes medicine, take it every day as directed — even when you feel fine. Don’t stop or swap drugs without talking to a health worker, and don’t rely on “miracle” herbal cures.
💡
Know your numbers
Get your blood pressure checked at least once a year, and more often if you are over 40 or have risk factors. Many pharmacies check it for little or no cost.
💬
Join the conversation
When did you last check your blood pressure? · How can we reduce salt and seasoning cubes in Nigerian cooking?
Frequently asked questions
What is a normal blood pressure?
A reading below about 120/80 mmHg is generally considered normal. Repeated readings of 140/90 mmHg or higher are usually considered high. Your doctor will advise what is right for you.
Can high blood pressure be cured?
It usually cannot be cured, but it can be controlled with healthy habits and, when needed, daily medicine prescribed by a doctor.
Does high blood pressure always cause headaches?
No. Most people with high blood pressure have no symptoms at all, which is why regular checks are important.
Written by the askJBoss team from public information and our own research; last updated October 2026. Prices, dates and rules change — always confirm with the official source. Spotted something that has changed? Tell us in the comments.
