Hypertension
HYPERTENSION (HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE)
Living With and Controlling High Blood Pressure
Hypertension is a long-term condition, but it can be successfully controlled.
👉 Many people live long, healthy lives with proper treatment
👉 Medication + lifestyle changes are very effective
👉 Control greatly reduces risk of complications
Hypertension is serious—but manageable.
❤️ WHAT IS HYPERTENSION?
Hypertension means your blood pressure stays consistently high over time.
Unlike temporary elevation, hypertension is:
Persistent
Repeated on multiple readings
A confirmed medical diagnosis
⚠️ WHY HYPERTENSION MATTERS
If not controlled, high blood pressure can damage:
❤️ Heart (heart attack, heart failure)
🧠 Brain (stroke)
🧬 Kidneys (kidney failure)
👁 Eyes (vision loss)
🩸 Blood vessels (circulation problems)
🧠 IMPORTANT FACT
Many people with hypertension:
👉 Feel completely normal 👉 Have no symptoms at all 👉 Only discover it during screening
This is why regular checks are essential.
💊 TREATMENT OPTIONS
Your healthcare provider may recommend:
🟢 MEDICATION
Taken daily
Controls blood pressure
Prevents complications
Do NOT stop medication without medical advice***
🍲 LIFESTYLE CHANGES
§ Reduce salt intake. § Eat more vegetables and fruits. § Maintain healthy weight
§ Exercise regularly. § Stop smoking § Limit alcohol
🍲 HEALTHY FOOD GUIDANCE
🟢 EAT MORE
Ugu, efo, okra
Beans and moi-moi
Fish (grilled or boiled)
Fruits (moderation)
Unsalted nuts
🔴 REDUCE
Salt and seasoning cubes
Instant noodles
Processed meats
Fried foods (frequent intake)
Sugary drinks
🚶♂️ DAILY HEALTH HABITS
✔ Walk 30 minutes daily
✔ Stay physically active
✔ Drink clean water
✔ Sleep 6–8 hours
✔ Manage stress through prayer and rest
📋 MONITORING PLAN
Your healthcare team may recommend:
☐ Regular blood pressure checks
☐ Kidney function tests
☐ Heart evaluation (ECG if needed)
☐ Cholesterol testing
☐ Medication review
☐ Follow-up visits
How to manage high blood pressure
🗓️ NEXT APPOINTMENT: It is important to see your doctor as soon as possible.
🟠 HIGH (STAGE 1) 130–139 / 80–89: You need follow-up and lifestyle changes
🔴 HIGH (STAGE 2) over 140/90 or higher:
You need medical evaluation and possible treatment
🚨 SEEK IMMEDIATE CARE IF YOUR BLOOD PRESSURE IS OVER 180/110 (Stage 3 hypertension) and/or you have:
🔴 Chest pain. 🔴 Severe headache 🔴 Weakness or numbness on one side
🔴 Difficulty speaking 🔴 Vision loss 🔴 Severe shortness of breath
🌿 LIVING WELL WITH HYPERTENSION
With proper care, you can:
Live a full life
Continue your work
Prevent complications
Stay active and strong
Consistency is the key to control.