Video language: Hindi
Blood pressure is the force of blood against the walls of your arteries. It is written as two numbers, such as 120/80. High blood pressure often causes no symptoms, which is why regular checks matter. Chest pain, breathlessness and palpitations always deserve a doctor's attention.
Common Signs
- High blood pressure usually has no symptoms and is found on a routine check.
- Some people notice headaches, dizziness or a pounding heartbeat.
- Heart-related warning signs include chest discomfort, breathlessness on mild effort, palpitations and swollen ankles.
- Tiredness that is new or unexplained.
When to See a Doctor Promptly
- Chest pain or pressure, especially with sweating, breathlessness or pain spreading to the arm or jaw: call for emergency help at once.
- Sudden weakness or numbness on one side, a drooping face or difficulty speaking: this can be a stroke, so go to hospital immediately.
- A very severe headache, fainting, or a very high reading with symptoms.
- Repeated high readings at home, or palpitations that keep returning.
In an emergency, go to the nearest hospital.
Everyday Care for a Healthy Heart
- Check your blood pressure regularly, as your doctor advises.
- Cut down on salt, and choose fresh food over packaged food.
- Stay active most days and keep a healthy weight.
- Avoid tobacco and limit alcohol.
- Protect your sleep and find ways to manage stress.
What Dr. Arpana Highlights
Dr. Arpana explains high blood pressure simply: the heart pumps blood with a lot of force, and blood moves through the arteries with that force. Over time this can damage the inner lining of the arteries. Her advice is to build everyday habits, and she says that if you have borderline readings, adopting them early may lower your chances of developing hypertension later.
- Check regularly: measure your blood pressure at the same time each day, with the cuff properly fitted. Do not exercise for 30 minutes before, rest quietly for a few minutes, and if a reading looks off, wait a little and measure again.
- Eat the DASH way: DASH stands for Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension. It means plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables, fibre, nuts, legumes and whole lentils, low-fat dairy and lean protein, and little processed or ready-to-eat food.
- Potassium from food: melon, coconut water and bananas help balance sodium. Food sources are preferred to supplements. If you have kidney disease or take blood pressure medicines, ask your doctor first.
- Lower stress: yoga, meditation and simple breathing exercises.
- Move daily: walking, jogging, swimming, gardening or dancing, and keep the fat around your belly down.
Homeopathy is used alongside your doctor's care and no outcome is promised. Never stop or change blood pressure medicines without your doctor's advice.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a high blood pressure reading?
Doctors generally consider repeated readings of 140/90 or higher to be high, but your own target depends on your health. Your doctor will tell you what applies to you.
Can I stop my blood pressure medicine once my readings are normal?
No. Normal readings often mean the medicine is working. Never stop or change it without your doctor's advice.
Are palpitations always serious?
Often they are harmless, but they should be checked, especially if they come with chest pain, breathlessness or fainting.
You can book a consultation or read the frequently asked questions. This page is for general education and is not a substitute for personal medical advice.