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Introduction
High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, is a condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It is often referred to as the "silent killer" because it can be present without any noticeable symptoms. In this blog, we will discuss the importance of monitoring blood pressure and highlight ten symptoms of high blood pressure that you should never ignore.
Understanding Blood Pressure
Blood pressure refers to the force that the blood exerts on the walls of your arteries. It is measured using two numbers - the systolic blood pressure (the pressure when the heart is contracting) and the diastolic blood pressure (the pressure when the heart is relaxed).
A normal or healthy blood pressure is when the systolic blood pressure is less than 120 and the diastolic blood pressure is less than 80. Elevated blood pressure falls between 120 and 129 for systolic, while the diastolic remains less than 80. Stage 1 hypertension is when the systolic blood pressure is between 130 and 139, or the diastolic number is between 80 and 89. Stage 2 hypertension occurs when the systolic blood pressure is greater than or equal to 140 and the diastolic blood pressure is greater than or equal to 90. A hypertensive crisis is diagnosed when the blood pressure reaches 180 over 120.
10 Symptoms of High Blood Pressure
1. Headache
Headaches, especially severe ones, can be a symptom of hypertension. Elevated blood pressure can result in increased pressure within your brain, leading to headaches or a pounding sensation in the ears.
2. Blurry Vision
Changes in vision or blurry vision can indicate hypertension-related complications in the eyes. Hypertensive retinopathy, caused by damaged blood vessels in the retina, can lead to blurry vision or even vision loss.
3. Fatigue
Excessive tiredness, fatigue, or confusion can be symptoms of hypertension. The compromised functioning of the heart, lungs, and neurological system can all contribute to these feelings of fatigue.
4. Chest Pain
Chest pain can be a symptom of hypertension and is often associated with heart attacks or heart failure. Elevated blood pressure can compromise blood flow to the heart, leading to chest pain or a myocardial infarction.
5. Weakness
Weakness, especially focal weakness, can indicate a stroke or cerebral vascular accident caused by hypertension. If you experience weakness in your face, arms, or legs, it could be a sign of high blood pressure-related complications.
6. Nausea
Nausea or vomiting can result from increased intracranial pressure or heart attack caused by hypertension. If blood vessels in the brain rupture or if a heart attack occurs, nausea can be triggered.
7. Shortness of Breath
Shortness of breath can be a symptom of high blood pressure. It can be caused by a heart attack, pulmonary edema (excess fluid in the lungs), or heart failure resulting from elevated blood pressure.
8. Back Pain
Back pain may seem unrelated, but it can be a symptom of hypertension. Aortic dissection, a potentially fatal condition, can occur when the aorta is compromised due to high blood pressure. Back pain is one of the main symptoms of aortic dissection.
9. Nosebleeds
While rare, nosebleeds can be a symptom of high blood pressure. Elevated blood pressure can damage blood vessels in the nasal airways, leading to nosebleeds.
10. The Most Important Symptom: Nothing
Surprisingly, most people with hypertension experience no symptoms at all. This is why hypertension is often referred to as the silent killer. Even without noticeable symptoms, high blood pressure can still cause severe health issues such as kidney failure, heart attacks, strokes, and even death. It is crucial to monitor and manage blood pressure regularly.
Conclusion
High blood pressure is a serious condition that requires attention and monitoring. The ten symptoms discussed in this blog should not be ignored, as they can indicate underlying hypertension-related complications. Remember, even if you don't experience any symptoms, it is essential to consult with your physician and get screened for hypertension regularly. By taking proactive steps to manage your blood pressure, you can lead a healthier and happier life.
About the Author
Dr. Freda is a triple board-certified Nephrology and Hypertension specialist practicing at Emory University Hospital Midtown in Atlanta, Georgia. With years of experience, Dr. Freda is dedicated to raising awareness about hypertension and helping individuals lead healthier lives. Follow Dr. Freda on Instagram @dr.freda for more valuable insights and tips for maintaining good health.
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