On World Stroke Day, a cardiologist has urged millions of Brits to check their blood pressure, warning that around 4.1 million people in the UK may unknowingly have high readings—a condition associated with more than half of all strokes worldwide.
High blood pressure often causes no symptoms, yet it remains one of the biggest risk factors for stroke. According to the NHS, approximately 4.1 million people in the UK have high blood pressure without knowing it, and the World Stroke Organisation links the condition to more than half of all strokes globally.
Although it usually produces no obvious symptoms, high blood pressure can cause severe damage to blood vessels, making them more vulnerable to narrowing, blockages or rupture.
Why symptoms are hard to spot
Dr Francesco Lo Monaco, consultant cardiologist and founder of the National Longevity Clinic, said the lack of symptoms was one of the biggest dangers. He explained: “High blood pressure is one of the most important risk factors we can identify and treat to reduce the risk of stroke. The difficulty is that many people assume they are healthy because they feel well.”
“You cannot reliably tell whether your blood pressure is high by how you feel. Someone can be active, appear healthy and have no symptoms at all, yet still have elevated readings that need attention. That is why checking your blood pressure is such a simple but important step in protecting your long-term health.”
How high blood pressure affects the body
Blood pressure measures the force of blood pushing against the walls of your arteries. If it remains too high, it places extra strain on the blood vessels supplying the heart, brain, kidneys and other organs. Over time, this can contribute to damage and disease in the arteries.
A stroke can occur when a blood clot blocks the blood supply to part of the brain or when a blood vessel ruptures and causes bleeding.
Dr Lo Monaco said: “Stroke is not simply an issue that appears out of nowhere in old age. The risks can build over many years, which is why prevention matters well before someone develops symptoms.”
“Blood pressure is only one part of the picture. Cholesterol, diabetes, smoking, alcohol intake, physical activity, diet and family history can all influence cardiovascular risk. Looking at these factors together gives us a better understanding of where someone may need to make changes or seek treatment.”
Checking your numbers and reducing risk
In the UK, a reading of 140/90mmHg or above in a clinical setting, or 135/85mmHg or above when measured at home, is generally considered high. A single reading does not always confirm a diagnosis, so a GP may recommend repeat checks or home monitoring.
Eating a balanced diet with plenty of fruit and vegetables, limiting salt, exercising regularly, avoiding smoking and keeping alcohol intake within recommended limits can all help support healthy blood pressure. Medication may also be needed, depending on a person’s readings and overall risk.
Dr Lo Monaco added: “The most effective approach is not to focus on one magic food or supplement. It is about understanding your individual risk, checking your blood pressure and cholesterol, and addressing problems early.”
“If you discover that your blood pressure is high, do not panic - but do not ignore it either. Speak to a healthcare professional about what your results mean and whether lifestyle changes, medication or both are appropriate.”
Know the warning signs of stroke
Even with preventative measures, strokes can still happen. The NHS recommends remembering the FAST test: Face—has one side of the face drooped? Arms—can the person raise both arms and keep them raised? Speech—is their speech slurred or unusual? Time—call 999 immediately if you notice any of these signs.
Other sudden symptoms can include loss of vision, weakness or numbness, confusion, dizziness or a severe headache. Do not wait to see whether symptoms improve.
