High blood pressure, work and benefits

Is high blood pressure a disability?

Most people with well-controlled high blood pressure are not affected in their daily life, so it does not usually count as a disability under the Equality Act 2010 on its own. It may count if it has a substantial, long-term effect on your daily life, or if it has led to other conditions such as heart disease, kidney disease or a stroke.

Even so, most employers will help with simple things, such as time off for appointments.

Driving

Car and motorcycle drivers do not usually need to tell the DVLA about high blood pressure, unless the condition or its treatment causes symptoms that affect safe driving. The rules are stricter for bus and lorry drivers. Check GOV.UK for the current rules.

Prescriptions

High blood pressure does not give you free prescriptions in England. If you pay for prescriptions and need several items, a prescription prepayment certificate can save you money. Prescriptions are free for everyone in Wales.

Benefits

Benefits such as PIP are based on how your health affects your daily life, not on having a diagnosis. High blood pressure on its own rarely does this. But if you also have related conditions, such as heart disease, a stroke, kidney disease or heart failure, or symptoms such as breathlessness and tiredness, these may affect activities like preparing food, washing or moving around.

If you cannot work because of your health, you may be able to get Universal Credit or New Style Employment and Support Allowance. A free adviser, such as Citizens Advice, can help you check.