High blood pressure, or hypertension, occurs when the force of blood against your artery walls is consistently too high. This condition makes your heart work harder to pump blood throughout your body, potentially damaging your arteries, heart, kidneys, and other organs over time. In Australia, blood pressure readings are measured in millimetres of mercury (mmHg), with normal readings typically below 120/80 mmHg. Elevated readings range from 120-139/80-89 mmHg, whilst high blood pressure is classified as 140/90 mmHg or higher.
Several risk factors contribute to hypertension, including advancing age, family history, obesity, excessive salt intake, lack of physical activity, smoking, and excessive alcohol consumption. Often called the "silent killer," hypertension frequently presents no obvious symptoms, though some people may experience headaches, dizziness, or nosebleeds. Regular blood pressure monitoring and routine check-ups with your healthcare provider are essential for early detection and management of this condition.
Australian pharmacies stock various classes of antihypertensive medications, each working through different mechanisms to lower blood pressure effectively. ACE inhibitors, such as perindopril (Coversyl), ramipril (Tritace), and enalapril (Renitec), work by relaxing blood vessels and reducing the production of hormones that narrow arteries. Calcium channel blockers like amlodipine (Norvasc) and felodipine (Plendil) prevent calcium from entering heart and blood vessel cells, causing vessels to relax.
Diuretics, including hydrochlorothiazide and indapamide, help eliminate excess sodium and water from your body. Beta-blockers such as metoprolol (Betaloc) and atenolol (Tenormin) reduce heart rate and the heart's workload. Angiotensin receptor blockers, including telmisartan (Micardis) and candesartan (Atacand), block specific receptors that cause blood vessels to narrow.
When prescribing hypertension medication, your doctor considers several important factors to ensure the most effective treatment for your individual circumstances. These include your age, overall health, existing medical conditions, current medications, and how well your kidneys and liver function.
Treatment typically begins with single therapy using one medication at a low dose. If your blood pressure doesn't reach target levels after 4-6 weeks, your doctor may increase the dose or add a second medication. Combination treatments are often more effective than high doses of single medications and may cause fewer side effects.
Elderly patients require special consideration as they may be more sensitive to medication effects and have a higher risk of falls due to blood pressure changes. During pregnancy, only certain medications are considered safe, and treatment plans require careful monitoring by specialists.
In Australia, many hypertension medications are available as PBS-subsidised generics, making treatment more affordable while maintaining the same effectiveness as brand-name versions.
Different classes of hypertension medications can cause varying side effects. ACE inhibitors may cause a dry cough, calcium channel blockers can lead to ankle swelling, and diuretics might increase urination frequency. Beta-blockers may cause fatigue or cold hands and feet.
If you experience adverse reactions, never stop taking your medication suddenly. Contact your doctor or pharmacist immediately to discuss alternatives or dose adjustments. Severe reactions like difficulty breathing, chest pain, or fainting require emergency medical attention.
Regular monitoring through blood tests and blood pressure checks helps ensure your medication remains safe and effective.
Following a heart-healthy diet plays a crucial role in managing hypertension. The DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) eating plan emphasises fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins whilst reducing saturated fats and processed foods. Incorporating potassium-rich foods like bananas, spinach, and avocados can help counteract sodium's effects on blood pressure.
Regular physical activity strengthens your heart and improves circulation. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise weekly, such as brisk walking or swimming. Before starting any exercise programme, consult your GP, especially if you have other health conditions. Stress management through meditation, yoga, or deep breathing exercises can significantly impact blood pressure readings.
Consistent medication adherence is vital for effective hypertension management. Take medications exactly as prescribed, even when feeling well, as high blood pressure often presents no symptoms. Home blood pressure monitoring devices, available at your local pharmacy, provide valuable data for your healthcare team and help track treatment effectiveness.
Regular pharmacy medication reviews ensure your treatment remains optimal and identify potential drug interactions. Your pharmacist can adjust dosing schedules to improve adherence and monitor for side effects. Building strong relationships with both your GP and pharmacist creates a comprehensive support network for long-term success.
