Hypertension: Take Control of Your Blood Pressure
Understand it. Manage it. Live well with support from the Mzima Program.
What is Hypertension?
Hypertension means your blood pressure stays higher than normal for a long period of time. This puts extra strain on your heart, kidneys, eyes, and brain. Globally, hypertension is a leading cause of heart disease and stroke, yet it is often preventable and manageable.
Understand your numbers. Check your BP and speak to a medical expert today.
Understanding Blood Pressure Readings
Blood pressure is recorded as systolic / diastolic (e.g., 120/80 mmHg).
Normal Blood Pressure
<120 / <80 mmHg
Your blood pressure is healthy. Maintain a healthy lifestyle.
Elevated Blood Pressure
120–129 / <80 mmHg
Your blood pressure is higher than normal. Monitor regularly and adopt healthy habits.
High Blood Pressure (Stage 1)
130–139 / 80–89 mmHg
This is early hypertension. Consult a clinician; medication may be needed.
High Blood Pressure (Stage 2)
≥140 / ≥90 mmHg
Hypertension requires medical management and treatment.
Hypertensive Crisis
≥180 / ≥120 mmHg
Dangerously high. Seek emergency medical care immediately.
(Based on Kenya MoH Guidelines)
Know Your Numbers
Check your BP today and connect with a Mzima medical expert.
Why High Blood Pressure Matters
If not managed, high blood pressure increases the risk of:
Heart attack and heart failure
Stroke
Vision loss (hypertensive retinopathy)
Kidney damage
Signs & Symptoms
Most people with hypertension do not notice symptoms. When they appear, they may include:
- Frequent headaches
- Nosebleeds
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Blurred vision
Most people have no symptoms
Best advice: Regularly check your blood pressure. It is the only way to know for sure.
Managing Hypertension
The good news: Hypertension can be managed with healthy lifestyle habits and, when prescribed, medication.
Lifestyle Tips (Backed by Global Guidelines):
Reduce salt in your meals (less than 5g- about one teaspoon- per day as recommended by WHO).
Eat more fruits, vegetables, and whole grains — the DASH diet has been proven to lower blood pressure.
Stay active (3 times a week of moderate exercise, e.g., walking or cycling).
Avoid smoking and limit alcohol.
Manage stress and ensure enough sleep.
Medication Support with Mzima:
Consistent access to your prescribed medicines — no stock-outs at MYDAWA.
Free Monthly follow-up calls with a healthcare provider.
Nutrition reviews at 3 & 6 months with actionable results.
Specialist check at 9 months (Cardiologist, Ophthalmologist, or Endocrinologist).
Mzima helps you stay on track so you can live healthier and avoid complications.
How the Mzima Program Supports You
When you join the Mzima Program for hypertension, you’ll receive:
Medication & Devices
Easy access to affordable medicines and discounted blood pressure devices.
Follow-ups
Free Regular follow-ups to track your progress.
Care plan
A personalized care plan based on your health needs.
Delivery
Convenient home delivery so you never run out.
Caregiver support
Guidance and support for both patients and caregivers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Not yet, but it can be controlled with medication and lifestyle changes.
Most patients need long-term treatment, but your doctor will adjust as needed.
If you’re healthy, at least once every 6–12 months 3 months. If you have hypertension, more frequent checks as advised by your provider. When you are part of our program, we will help you track your measurements monthly
They help a lot, but many people still need medication to control blood pressure safely. The medication helps your body to not overwork when maintaining your pressure.