High blood pressure is a major risk factor for stroke, but regular checks and good management can help reduce that risk.
We all know someone affected by high blood pressure, but did you know it’s the leading cause of stroke in New Zealand? Each year, around 9,000 Kiwis experience a stroke, and experts say most could be prevented through regular blood pressure checks and ongoing management.
That’s why we partner with Zoom Pharmacy, who make it easier than ever for members to stay on top of their medicines and get trusted health advice from qualified pharmacists all without leaving home.
Their latest article explains how high blood pressure (hypertension) can lead to stroke, what symptoms to look for, and how managing your blood pressure can protect you and your loved ones.
You can read the original article here but we’ve also published the full article below.
A stroke occurs when the blood supply to part of the brain is interrupted or reduced. This interruption to blood supply causes the brain cells to die. There are two primary types of strokes:
Pronounced “iss-key-muhk”, this is the most common type of stroke. It occurs when blood supply to part of your brain is blocked by fatty deposits, blood clots or other debris. There are two types of ischemic strokes:
A haemorrhagic stroke happens when a weakened blood vessel leaks or bursts, causing bleeding into the brain. A “haemorrhage” is the term for bleeding inside your body. This disruption to the normal blood flow in your brain will prevent it from getting the bood and oxygen it needs to survive. The pressure from the bleeding can also damage or kill brain cells.
Both ischaemic and haemorrhagic strokes are medical emergencies. It’s critical to get medical assistance and treatment as soon as possible, this can reduce brain damage and other complications. Learning the symptoms of a stroke could make a significant difference in someones recovery.
The F.A.S.T. acronym can be used to test for the common signs of a stroke.
Face. Ask the person to smile. Does one side of the face droop?
Arms. Ask the person to raise both arms and keep them up. Is one arm unable to rise? Or does one arm drift downward?
Speech. Speak with the person. Is their speech slurred or different from usual? Are they difficult to understand?
Take action. If you see any of these signs, and/or suspect a stroke call 111 for emergency medical help right away.
Join Stroke Aotearoa NZ on October 29th for WORLD STROKE DAY to drive public awareness of stroke, recognising the signs, and acting F.A.S.T.
Hypertension (high blood pressure) is the leading risk factor for strokes. It is a factor in about half of all strokes. When your blood pressure is high for extended periods of time it puts continuous strain on your arteries and blood vessels. The damage caused by high blood pressure increases your risk of both ischaemic stroke (caused by clots) and haemorrhagic stroke (caused by bleeding).
High blood pressure can lead to a stroke in several ways. It causes damage to blood vessels and increases the risk of an ischaemic stroke due to:
The damage it causes to blood vessels inside the brain also increases the risk of haemorrhagic stroke through:
Because it is the biggest risk factor in strokes reducing high blood pressure is critical to reducing your risk of having a stroke. Even small reductions in blood pressure can make a big difference. Here’s some of the key information relating to preventing or managing high blood pressure:
Hypertension is often called the silent killer due to it often being symptomless, that means regular blood pressure checks are critically important. Home blood pressure monitors are a powerful tool that allows you to check frequently and make sure your lifestyle changes and/or medicines are working. You should still get your blood pressure measured with a healthcare provider regularly.
If you are diagnosed with hypertension, your doctors may prescribe medicines to help control it. These medicines will not “cure” the condition and usually need to be taken daily for life – unless lifestyle changes/weight loss is enough to return your blood pressure to normal.
Even if you’re feeling fine you should never cut back or quit taking your medication. Always consult your healthcare professional first.
"Around 80–90 percent of strokes could be prevented and managing blood pressure is the single most powerful step you can take."
A stroke is a medical emergency. As we covered earlier in the article, recognizing the symptoms quickly is important – think F.A.S.T.
If you suspect someone may be having stroke think F.A.S.T – Face, Arm, Speech, Time/Take action and call 111 immediately.
According to Stroke Aotearoa NZ, most strokes are preventable. Up to 90% of strokes are linked to ten risk factors, including high blood pressure, physical inactivity, poor diet, and smoking – many of which can be controlled.
Managing health conditions like high blood pressure isn’t just about taking medicine - it’s about staying informed, consistent, and connected to trusted care.
Zoom Pharmacy helps make that easier, with reliable home delivery, refill reminders, and access to qualified pharmacists who can answer your questions. For many members, it’s a simple way to stay on top of their health without extra stress.
At HealthCarePlus, we share that goal by giving you access to practical tools and trusted partners that can help you take care of yourself, one step at a time.