Symptoms of High Blood Pressure

Summary: High blood pressure, often called the “silent killer,” usually comes with few obvious signs. However, some people may experience headaches, nosebleeds, or shortness of breath. Long-term high blood pressure can increase the risk of heart disease, stroke, and other serious health conditions.

High blood pressure is one of the most common conditions I saw in my clinic, especially in people of middle age or older. It can be very dangerous if it goes untreated. So, it is essential to know the symptoms of high blood pressure and to seek medical help when needed.

Why Is It Called the “Silent Killer”?

High blood pressure has a reputation for being sneaky. Most people don’t even realize they have it because it usually doesn’t cause noticeable symptoms. That’s why it’s crucial to get your blood pressure checked regularly. Ignoring this important health metric could lead to serious complications down the road.

Common of High Blood Pressure: Are There Any?

While high blood pressure is often symptomless, some people do report certain signs. These may include:

• Headaches: You might experience headaches more often.
• Nosebleeds: Occasional nosebleeds can occur, although they are rare.
• Shortness of Breath: You may find it harder to catch your breath, especially during physical activities.

However, these symptoms are not definitive indicators of high blood pressure. They could be due to other health conditions or even just daily stress. So, if you experience these symptoms, it’s a good idea to talk with your doctor for a proper diagnosis.

When to Worry: Symptoms of Severe High Blood Pressure

In extreme cases, high blood pressure can lead to more serious symptoms. These are warning signs that you should seek medical attention immediately:

• Severe Headaches: Intense, unbearable headaches could signal dangerously high blood pressure.
• Vision Problems: Experiencing blurred or double vision is a serious red flag.
• Chest Pain: This could indicate that your heart is under significant stress.
• Difficulty Speaking or Understanding: These are symptoms often associated with neurological problems, possibly linked to high blood pressure.

According to the American Heart Association, these symptoms often appear in what is known as a ‘hypertensive crisis,’ a severe form of high blood pressure that requires immediate medical intervention.

How Doctors Diagnose High Blood Pressure

You might think that experiencing symptoms will make it easy to diagnose high blood pressure, but that’s not always the case. Healthcare providers usually rely on multiple blood pressure readings taken over time to make a diagnosis. Sometimes, they might even recommend a 24-hour blood pressure monitoring test.

What Causes High Blood Pressure?

Examples of factors that can contribute to high blood pressure include:

• Poor Diet: Consuming too much salt and not enough fruits and vegetables.
• Lack of Exercise: A sedentary lifestyle can cause your blood pressure to rise.
• Stress: Long-term emotional stress may contribute to high blood pressure.
• Genetics: If your family has a history of high blood pressure, you’re at higher risk.

Preventing High Blood Pressure: What Can You Do?

Scientists agree that lifestyle choices play a big role in controlling blood pressure. Here are some tips:

• Eat a Balanced Diet: Include more fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins.
• Exercise Regularly: Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week.
• Limit Alcohol and Caffeine: Too much of these can negatively impact your blood pressure.

Adopting these changes can lower your risk and better manage your blood pressure levels.

Further Reading: 7 Ways To Reduce Your Blood Pressure