High blood pressure is one of the most common diseases affecting the heart and blood vessels. It affects about one in seven Australian adults and becomes more common with age. However, not everyone who has high blood pressure knows that he or she has it and it may go undetected for years. Uncontrolled high blood pressure forces the heart to work harder and may lead to heart attack, stroke, heart failure and kidney disease. High blood pressure is usually detected by the doctor when it is checked during a regular physical examination. A high reading may only reflect a temporary rise in blood pressure, perhaps from nervousness. The doctor may want to repeat the measurements on a different day and after the person has been allowed time to relax. Your doctor will advise on how often to check your blood pressure and may advise on how to monitor your own blood pressure. Useful contacts and resourcesHeart Foundation
Heartline 1300 362 787 The Heart Foundation
Its national website includes information sheets on blood pressure and a blood pressure recording chart
www.heartfoundation.com.au South Australia branch
155-159 Hutt Street
Adelaide SA 5000
Tel. 8224 2888
Email sa@heartfoundation.org.au HealthInsite
Australian Government website that provides health information. It includes the section High Blood Pressure (Hypertension)
www.healthinsite.gov.au Better Health Channel
Victoria State Government website featuring a range of fact sheets on health issues and conditions including Blood pressure (high) – hypertension. Please note that some of the fact sheets on this website may provide Victorian telephone numbers and contacts.
www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au
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