High Blood Pressure

High blood pressure increases the risk of heart disease, stroke, and other serious health complications, making regular monitoring and management essential. Our AHPRA-accredited online doctors and medical practitioners are available 24/7 to provide expert guidance.

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This guide does not replace professional care. In emergencies, call 000 or visit a hospital immediately.

About high blood pressure

High blood pressure, or hypertension, occurs when the force of blood against the artery walls remains consistently elevated, typically above 130/80 mmHg. Often referred to as the “silent killer,” hypertension may not present noticeable symptoms for years, making it particularly dangerous as it can lead to severe health complications if left untreated. Over time, uncontrolled high blood pressure puts excessive strain on the heart and blood vessels, increasing the risk of heart disease, stroke, kidney damage, and vision loss. Several factors contribute to hypertension, including genetics, poor diet, high salt intake, lack of physical activity, obesity, stress, smoking, and excessive alcohol consumption. In some cases, underlying medical conditions such as kidney disease, hormonal disorders, or certain medications can also contribute to high blood pressure. Regular monitoring, lifestyle changes such as a healthy diet and exercise, and medication when necessary can help manage and reduce the risks associated with hypertension. Seeking medical advice and early intervention are crucial in preventing long-term complications.

Medically reviewed by Dr. Ammar AL-ANI, MBChB, CCBST, AMC

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You should consult a GP for high blood pressure (hypertension) in the following situations:

  • Consistently high readings: If your blood pressure is persistently above 140/90 mmHg (or 130/80 mmHg if you have diabetes or kidney disease)
  • Severe symptoms: If you have severe headaches, chest pain, dizziness, blurred vision, shortness of breath, or nosebleeds.
  • Family history: If you have a family history of hypertension, heart disease, diabetes, obesity, or high cholesterol.
  • Monitoring medication: If you are already on blood pressure medication
  • Pregnancy: If you are planning a pregnancy or are currently pregnant and have high blood pressure
  • Sudden increase: If your readings are suddenly very high (above 180/120 mmHg) with symptoms like chest pain, confusion, or difficulty breathing.

Most people with high blood pressure experience no symptoms, but severe hypertension may cause:

  • Headaches
  • Dizziness or blurred vision
  • Chest pain
  • Shortness of breath
  • Fatigue
  • Nosebleeds
  • Irregular heartbeat

High blood pressure, or hypertension, occurs when the force of blood against artery walls is consistently too high. It can develop over time due to various factors, including lifestyle choices, underlying health conditions, and genetics.

  • Unhealthy diet: High salt (sodium), processed foods, and low potassium intake can raise blood pressure.
  • Lack of physical activity: A sedentary lifestyle can lead to weight gain and poor circulation.
  • Obesity: Excess body weight puts more strain on the heart, increasing blood pressure.
  • Excessive alcohol & smoking: Both can damage blood vessels and elevate blood pressure.
  • Chronic stress: Prolonged stress can lead to temporary spikes in blood pressure.
  • Medical conditions: Kidney disease, diabetes, and hormonal imbalances can cause secondary hypertension.
  • Genetics & age: A family history of high blood pressure or being over 40 increases risk.

Effective management involves lifestyle changes and, in some cases, medication:

  • Adopt a heart-healthy diet: Reduce sodium, eat more fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
  • Exercise regularly: Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days of the week.
  • Limit alcohol & quit smoking: Reducing both can significantly lower blood pressure.
  • Manage stress: Practices like meditation and deep breathing can help.
  • Maintain a healthy weight: Shedding extra kilos can help control blood pressure.
  • Monitor blood pressure: Regular checks at home or with a GP are crucial.

Managing high blood pressure naturally involves lifestyle modifications such as:

  • Reducing salt intake: High sodium levels contribute to hypertension. Aim for less than 5g of salt per day.
  • Eating potassium-rich foods: Bananas, leafy greens, and avocados help balance sodium levels.
  • Exercising regularly: 30 minutes of moderate activity (like walking) five days a week can significantly lower blood pressure.
  • Maintaining a healthy weight: Losing even 5-10% of body weight can have a big impact.
  • Managing stress: Techniques like meditation, deep breathing, and yoga can help control stress-related hypertension.
  • Limiting alcohol and caffeine: Excessive intake can increase blood pressure over time.
  • Quitting smoking: Smoking damages blood vessels and increases hypertension risk.

Yes, excessive alcohol consumption can raise blood pressure over time. Drinking alcohol:

  • Increases heart rate, leading to temporary blood pressure spikes.
  • Interferes with hypertension medications, reducing their effectiveness.
  • Adds extra calories, which can lead to weight gain, a known risk factor for high blood pressure.

If you have hypertension, it is advised to limit alcohol to no more than 1-2 standard drinks per day, or avoid it altogether.

Uncontrolled blood pressure can affect organs over time, leading to serious complications:

  • Heart: Increased risk of heart attack, heart failure, and arrhythmias.
  • Brain: Higher risk of stroke, cognitive decline, and dementia.
  • Eyes: Can cause hypertensive retinopathy, leading to vision problems.
  • Kidneys: High blood pressure damages kidney function, increasing the risk of chronic kidney disease.
  • Arteries: Causes arterial stiffness and atherosclerosis, leading to reduced blood flow.

Proper blood pressure control through medications, diet, and lifestyle changes is essential to protect vital organs.

You can book a telehealth consultation with an AHPRA-accredited online doctor by following these steps:

  • Start here.
  • Click on “See a doctor”
  • Fill in your details and make the payment
  • Speak to a doctor via phone or video call, where they will assess your symptoms and medical history.
  • Receive treatment recommendations, including prescriptions, lifestyle advice, or referrals if necessary.

Yes, you can request an online medical certificate for high blood pressure. If your hypertension is causing headaches, dizziness, fatigue, or other symptoms that make it difficult to work, a telehealth doctor can assess your condition and issue a medical certificate online for high blood pressure symptoms within minutes. Medical certificates are commonly required for:

  • Sick leave from work
  • Sick leave from school or university
  • To fulfil carer responsibilities

If your high blood pressure is severe or requires further investigation, the doctor may also provide a referral for additional tests or specialist care.

Through telehealth services like Hola Health, you can receive an online prescription for high blood pressure medication. The process is simple:

  • Request an instant script.
  • Fill in your details and make payment.
  • Speak to a medical practitioner through a short instant consult.
  • Receive online scripts via SMS.
  • Collect your medication from a local pharmacy or opt for home delivery.

If your online doctor determines that further assessment is needed, they can provide an online referral for:

  • Blood tests to check cholesterol, kidney function, and other hypertension-related markers.
  • Radiology referral to assess heart health.
  • Specialist referrals

Yes, you can access an after-hours doctor for high blood pressure through telehealth services like Hola Health. Online GP services are available 24/7, allowing you to speak to a doctor from the comfort of your home, even on weekends and public holidays.

This is especially helpful if you experience sudden blood pressure spikes, dizziness, or symptoms like headaches or chest discomfort outside of regular clinic hours. While mild to moderate hypertension can be managed remotely, if your symptoms suggest a medical emergency (such as severe chest pain or difficulty breathing), call 000 immediately.

Speak to an AHPRA-registered online doctor or health practitioner instantly through 24/7 telehealth services.

Here’s how telehealth can help:

Instantly connect to a registered practitioner within 15 minutes from anywhere in Australia, 24/7 for:

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  • General consults
  • New & repeat scripts
  • Referrals
  • Medical certificates
  • Mental health plans

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