Hypertension: what you need to know and how to manage it

By Dr. (Pharm) Prince C. Obiora

High blood pressure or Hypertension is one of, if not the most prevalent, health conditions globally. This happens when the force of blood against your artery wall stays consistently high. It is often referred to as “the silent killer”. If left untreated, this can lead to serious complications such as kidney damage, heart failure, stroke, cardiovascular accidents and vision problems.

What Causes Hypertension?

Several factors can contribute to high blood pressure.

1. Genetics and age: Do you have a family history of high blood pressure? Genetics play a significant role in the development of hypertension. if you have a family history of hypertension, your risk is generally higher because your genes or genetic makeup play a vital role in the way you regulate blood pressure. As we age, our blood vessels gradually lose their elasticity, making blood flow difficult.  This is why adults with a healthy lifestyle develop hypertension with age.

Tip: Regular blood pressure checks become more important and necessary as we grow older. You can check you blood pressure at any Prime Pharmacy branch near you.

1. 2. Medical conditions: Several medical conditions can significantly increase the risk of developing hypertension. Several forms of kidney diseases can influence your blood pressure. This is because the kidney plays a vital role in regulating fluid and sodium (salt) balance; when your kidneys are affected, blood pressure often rises. Metabolic disorders like diabetes can also influence your blood pressure due to how the body handles sugar or the damage to blood vessels. If you have any of these conditions, regular blood pressure monitoring and early interventions are essential to prevent complications. Please speak to our pharmacist to learn more about the conditions that can affect your blood pressure.

1. 3.Lifestyle habits and hypertension: with the increase in processed foods and foods high in salt and saturated fats. One will wonder why there is an increase in hypertension. Often overlooked, lifestyle plays a significant role in the development of hypertension. Excessive consumption of alcohol and smoking further raises the risk. Stress and poor sleep habits also contribute to hypertension over time.

Symptoms

What symptoms should you be concerned about? Hypertension is often referred to as the “silent killer,” which is why you need to be checked regularly. However, some people may experience headaches or palpitations.

How to Manage Hypertension

Managing hypertension involves:

• Lifestyle changes: Reduce salt intake, exercise regularly, maintain a healthy weight, and avoid smoking.
• Medications: When lifestyle changes are not enough, doctors may prescribe:
• ACE inhibitors (e.g., Lisinopril)
• Calcium channel blockers (e.g., Amlodipine)
• Diuretics (e.g., Hydrochlorothiazide)
• Beta-blockers (e.g., Atenolol)

Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any medication.

For patients on long-term treatment programs, some pharmacies offer convenient monthly refill services—no need for repeated consultations. Prime Pharmacy has a tailored refill program to ensure you never miss a dose, helping you stay on track with your treatment and avoid health setbacks.

Talk to a Pharmacist Today

Managing hypertension can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. Walk into any pharmacy outlets and speak with a qualified pharmacist who will guide you on blood pressure monitoring, lifestyle tips, and safe medication use.

References

World Health Organization. (2021). Guideline for the pharmacological treatment of hypertension in adults. World Health Organization. Retrieved from https://www.who.int/publications/i/item/9789240033986

World Health Organization. (2025). Hypertension fact sheet. World Health Organization. Retrieved from https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/hypertension

American Heart Association. (n.d.). Types of blood pressure medications. American Heart Association. Retrieved from https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/high-blood-pressure/changes-you-can-make-to-manage-high-blood-pressure/types-of-blood-pressure-medications

American College of Cardiology & American Heart Association. (2025). 2025 AHA/ACC guideline for the prevention, detection, evaluation, and management of high blood pressure in adults. Retrieved from https://www.acc.org