Hypertension Myths and Facts: What You Need to Know
Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is one of India's fastest-growing health concerns. According to Apollo's Health of the Nation 2025 report, 1 in 3 working-age Indian men (31%) and 1 in 4 women (24%) between 40–55 years have high blood pressure. That's because hypertension typically shows no symptoms while silently damaging your heart, kidneys, brain and blood vessels. Tackling it starts with awareness.
Here are the most common myths and the facts you need to know to protect your health.
Myth 1: 'I feel fine, so my blood pressure must be normal.'
Fact: You can be perfectly healthy on the outside and still have high blood pressure. Many Indians with normal weight and active lifestyles still have hypertension due to stress, genetics or other underlying factors. As there are usually no symptoms, the only way to detect it early is through regular blood pressure checks. Ignoring it can lead to heart attacks, strokes, kidney disease and even vision loss.
Myth 2: 'Only older people get high blood pressure.'
Fact: While age increases the risk, Apollo's data shows that 1 in 3 people with high BP are under 40. Stressful jobs, poor sleep, ultraprocessed food, inactivity and high salt intake are fuelling early onset hypertension, especially in urban areas. The earlier it begins, the more damage to your body — raising the risk of complications in your 40s and 50s.
Uncontrolled hypertension can damage more than just your heart. It damages the kidneys, eyes, brain, and blood vessels.
Myth 3: 'Cutting salt is enough to control blood pressure.'
Fact: Lowering salt intake is crucial, but BP control requires a multi-pronged approach. A healthy diet, regular exercise, weight management, stress reduction and avoiding tobacco and excess alcohol are all key. If prescribed, medications must also be taken consistently. Relying on salt reduction alone can give a false sense of security.
Myth 4: 'I can stop my medication once my BP is normal.'
Fact: Blood pressure medicines control the condition — they don't cure it. Stopping them suddenly can cause dangerous spikes and increase the risk of stroke or heart failure. If you want to reduce dependence on medication, it must be done gradually and with your doctor's advice, along with sustained lifestyle changes.
Myth 5: 'Herbal remedies can replace my medicine.'
Fact: Some traditional remedies may help improve overall well-being, but they should never replace scientifically proven medication. Some herbs can even interfere with your BP medicines. Always speak to your doctor before combining treatments.
Myth 6: 'It doesn't run in my family, so I'm safe.'
Fact: Family history is just one factor. Many Indians develop hypertension without it, due to modern lifestyle risks. Everyone, regardless of family history, should monitor their BP regularly as part of their annual health checks.
Final Thoughts
Hypertension may be silent, but the damage it causes is serious and lifelong. The good news? It's preventable and manageable. Prioritise your health: check your BP regularly, commit to healthy habits, and stay on top of treatment.
Check it. Track it. Control it. Because your health is your best investment.
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'A Preventive Healthcare Initiative by Apollo ProHealth and The Hindu'
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