The Britannia P&I Club has issued its latest edition of “Risk Watch”, in which it presents some best practices for seafarers who live with hypertension.
What is hypertension?
As explained by Britannia in its publication, hypertension occurs when the pressure exerted by circulating blood upon the walls of blood vessels is consistently too high. According to the World Health Organization (WHO):
- An estimated 1.28 billion adults aged 30–79 years worldwide have hypertension.
- Approximately 46% of adults with hypertension are unaware they have the condition.
- Only 21% of adults with hypertension have it under control.
It can be caused by various factors, including diet, stress, genetics, age, and lack of activity. When undiagnosed or incorrectly managed, hypertension can lead to serious long-term medical consequences, including:
- Heart attacks
- Strokes
- Heart failure
- Peripheral arterial disease
- Aortic aneurysms
- Kidney disease
- Vascular dementia (due to reduced blood flow to the brain)
Given the risks, it is important for seafarers to manage their health onboard as well as possible.
Recommendations for hypertensive seafarers
#1 Take prescribed medications
Bring an adequate supply for your contract duration and remember to take medication daily, as instructed by your doctor.
- Consider setting a daily alarm as a reminder.
- Remember, having normal blood pressure doesn’t mean you can stop taking medication; it means the medication is working.
#2 Health and lifestyle
Health and lifestyle: This should apply to all seafarers and is especially important in controlling high blood pressure and other cardiovascular diseases. It should include:
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- Avoid tobacco: Smoking increases blood pressure and damages blood vessels.
- Eat a healthy diet: Limit sodium (salt). Focus on vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and low-fat dairy. Minimize saturated fats, cholesterol, and added sugars.
- Exercise regularly: Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate aerobic exercise most days of the week.
- Maintain a healthy weight: Weight loss in overweight and obest individuals can significantly lower blood pressure.
- Limit alcohol: No more than two drinks per day for men and one drink per day for women.
#3 Check blood pressure regularly
Check your blood pressure regularly (once a month or as instructed by your doctor): Tips for measuring blood pressure:
- Before: Avoid exercise, eating, or taking medication. Don’t drink caffeine or smoke for 30 minutes prior. Empty your bladder and rest for five minutes.
- During: Sit quietly, with both feet flat on the ground and your back supported. Use a cuff that fits properly. Take two readings, 1-2 minutes apart.
Assessing results:
Normal blood pressure: Less than 120/80 mm Hg
Elevated blood pressure: 120/80 to 129/79 mm Hg
Stage 1 hypertension: 130/80 to 139/89 mm Hg
Stage 2 hypertension: 140/90 mm Hg and above
If hypertension worsens
Uncontrolled hypertension can result in life-threatening conditions such as heart attacks, strokes, or hypertensive emergencies. Warning signs include:
- Chest pain
- Shortness of breath
- Severe headache
- Confusion
- Blurred vision
- Nausea and vomiting
Do not delay reaching out to your telemedical provider if your blood pressure remains high or if you experience any of these symptoms. Early contact is essential to prevent serious complications.
