What is high blood pressure?
High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, is a condition where the force of blood against your artery walls is consistently too high. It affects approximately 6 million Australian adults, and many do not know they have it because it often has no symptoms. Blood pressure is measured in millimetres of mercury (mmHg), and hypertension is generally diagnosed when readings are consistently above 140/90 mmHg.
High blood pressure is a major risk factor for heart disease, stroke, kidney disease, and other serious health conditions. It is sometimes called the "silent killer"because it can cause significant damage without noticeable symptoms until a serious event occurs.
High blood pressure may be managed with lifestyle changes and, where appropriate, medication. Regular monitoring and ongoing GP support can help you work towards keeping your blood pressure within a healthy range. Your GP will assess your individual circumstances.
When to see a doctor about high blood pressure
All adults should have their blood pressure checked regularly. You should see a GP if a pharmacy or home blood pressure reading shows elevated results, if you have a family history of high blood pressure or heart disease, or if you have risk factors such as being overweight, smoking, high salt intake, or a sedentary lifestyle.
If you are already on blood pressure medication, regular GP reviews are essential to ensure your treatment is working effectively and to monitor for any side effects. Seek urgent medical attention if you experience severe headache, chest pain, vision changes, or difficulty breathing, as these may indicate dangerously high blood pressure.
How a telehealth GP can help with high blood pressure
A NewDoc telehealth GP can review your blood pressure readings, assess your cardiovascular risk factors, and prescribe or adjust blood pressure medications. Telehealth is well suited for ongoing blood pressure management, medication reviews, and prescription renewals, particularly if you have a home blood pressure monitor.
Your GP can also order blood tests to check cholesterol, blood sugar, and kidney function, create a GP Management Plan for Medicare-subsidised allied health services (such as dietitian or exercise physiology), and refer you to a cardiologist if specialist input is needed.
Treatment options for high blood pressure
Lifestyle modifications are the foundation of blood pressure management and may be sufficient for mildly elevated blood pressure. Key changes include reducing salt intake, increasing physical activity, maintaining a healthy weight, limiting alcohol consumption, quitting smoking, and eating a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
When lifestyle changes alone are not sufficient, your GP may discuss blood pressure medication options. A number of medications are available on the PBS, and your GP will recommend the most appropriate option based on your individual profile.
Regular home blood pressure monitoring is recommended for people with hypertension. Your GP can advise on the correct technique and help you interpret your readings. Ongoing reviews ensure your medication is working effectively and your cardiovascular risk factors are being addressed. A GP Management Plan can provide access to allied health professionals such as dietitians and exercise physiologists to support your lifestyle goals.