High blood pressure (HBP) often goes unnoticed, as most individuals with elevated levels experience no specific signs or symptoms, even when readings reach dangerously high levels.
A minority might encounter headaches, shortness of breath, or nosebleeds. However, these symptoms are not exclusive to hypertension and typically don’t appear until the condition becomes severe or life-threatening.
If you’re searching for a list of pressure symptoms, you may find this surprising: often, there are none.
Myth vs. Reality:
- Myth: Individuals with HBP exhibit symptoms such as nervousness, sweating, sleep difficulties, or flushed faces.
- Reality: is a “silent killer” that shows no symptoms. Relying on specific symptoms to alert you to high blood pressure is a life-threatening gamble.
Recommendation: Self-diagnosis is risky. Only a healthcare professional can provide a clinical diagnosis. Know your blood pressure numbers and make significant lifestyle changes to protect your health. In most instances, high blood pressure does not cause headaches or nosebleeds.
Clinical evidence suggests that HBP does not lead to headaches or nosebleeds, except in cases of hypertensive crises, a medical emergency where blood pressure soars to 180/120 mm Hg or higher. If experiencing unusually high blood pressure accompanied by these symptoms, take immediate action.
Indirect Symptoms: There are symptoms indirectly related to high blood pressure, such as:
- Blood spots in the eyes: More common among those with diabetes or HBP but not directly caused by these conditions.
- Facial flushing: This occurs when blood vessels in the face dilate due to various factors, including emotional stress, exposure to heat, or physical exertion. While it can happen with elevated blood pressure, hypertension is not the direct cause.
- Dizziness: Not directly caused by HBP, but should not be ignored as it could signal more severe conditions, such as a stroke. HBP is a significant stroke risk factor.
When to See a Doctor:
Your blood pressure should be checked as part of regular doctor visits.
Request your doctor to check your blood pressure at least every two years starting at age 18. If you’re 40 or older, or if you’re between 18 and 39 with a high risk of HBP, annual checks are recommended. It’s crucial to measure blood pressure in both arms to identify any differences.
For more in-depth knowledge, we invite you to read our article on What Are Stem Cells?
