In Switzerland, around 25 percent of all adults suffer from high blood pressure, and for the older age groups the rate can even be as high as 50 percent. Learn more about your options for treating and preventing this condition.
Around one in five adults in Switzerland has high blood pressure. For those over 65, this figure rises to one in two. The condition usually develops slowly, and goes unnoticed for a long time. Persistently high blood pressure is a significant risk factor for cardiovascular diseases such as heart attack or stroke.
What qualifies as high blood pressure?
Blood pressure is considered high when the pressure in your blood vessels permanently exceeds 140/90 mmHg. The upper (systolic) and lower (diastolic) values are recorded every time your blood pressure is measured. Many sufferers don’t experience any symptoms, which is why hypertension is often only discovered during routine examinations.
Why is high blood pressure dangerous?
Permanently elevated blood pressure places a strain on the heart and blood vessels. This increases the risk of conditions such as:
- Vascular damage
- Heart attack
- Stroke
- Kidney damage
- Impaired vision
The earlier high blood pressure is detected and treated, the easier it will be to prevent secondary complications. The Swiss Heart Foundation recommends that adults over the age of 18 have their blood pressure checked every five years, even if they feel healthy, and then every year after turning 40.
Who is at risk?
There are many different causes. The main risk factors include:
- Lack of exercise
- Excess weight
- Unhealthy diet (too much salt, fat and alcohol)
- Smoking
- Stress
- Family history
- Age
“When you have high blood pressure, it’s similar to what happens with a water pipe. If the pressure is too high all of the time, eventually it will break,” comments Dr Silke Schmitt Oggier, Medical Director of the santé24 online practice, in her summary of the condition. In this video, she explains what the consequences are.
What can be done about high blood pressure?
There is a lot you can do yourself to prevent and treat this condition:
- Measure your blood pressure regularly: particularly from the age of 40, or if you have any risk factors.
- Eat a healthy diet: plenty of vegetables, not too much salt and a balanced meal plan.
- Exercise: at least 30 minutes of moderate activity every day (e.g. walking, cycling).
- Maintain a normal weight: even losing just a few pounds will lower your blood pressure.
- Reduce stress: relaxation techniques such as yoga or meditation help.
- Avoid smoking and excessive alcohol consumption.
When should you see a doctor?
You should make an appointment to see your GP if your blood pressure repeatedly exceeds 140/90 mmHg. Early diagnosis and personalised treatment are crucial for your health.
