High blood pressure is a condition in which the blood pressure against the artery walls is too high. This occurs when the systolic blood pressure reading is 140 mmHg or higher and/or the diastolic blood pressure reading is 90 mmHg or higher. Causes can include genetics, a high-salt diet, or complications from kidney disease or diabetes.
High blood pressure sometimes has no noticeable symptoms but is linked to dangerous conditions such as heart attacks and strokes. In addition to regular blood pressure monitoring, those at high risk should pay attention to three typical signs of the disease for early detection and treatment.
Severe headaches. One of the most common symptoms of dangerously high blood pressure is a severe headache. This headache is often sudden and intense, unlike a typical headache. It may cause a throbbing or stabbing pain, often at the back of the head.
High blood pressure puts extra pressure on the blood vessels in the brain. This pressure can cause pain and even damage if left untreated. A sudden, severe headache, especially in someone with high blood pressure, can be a sign of a hypertensive crisis requiring prompt treatment.
Blurred vision or other vision changes. High blood pressure can damage the small blood vessels in the eyes. When these blood vessels thicken, narrow, or even rupture, vision can be affected. Patients may experience blurred vision, seeing spots, or other vision problems.
This symptom is important because it indicates that high blood pressure is affecting the whole body, not just the heart. People experiencing vision changes along with other symptoms like headaches or dizziness should seek medical attention promptly.
Chest pain and shortness of breath. Chest pain and shortness of breath are serious symptoms associated with high blood pressure. When blood pressure is high, the heart has to work harder to pump blood, which can cause chest pain or tightness.
Shortness of breath also occurs in people with high blood pressure because it can lead to heart problems or fluid buildup in the lungs. These symptoms can signal heart disease or a heart attack due to uncontrolled high blood pressure.
High blood pressure silently damages arteries and other organs over time. If left untreated, it can lead to life-threatening problems such as stroke, heart attack, kidney failure, and heart failure.
Healthy adults should have their blood pressure checked at least every two years, or more often if they are at high risk. Maintaining a healthy, low-salt diet, exercising regularly, avoiding smoking, and maintaining a healthy weight are also helpful.
Bao Bao (Times of India)
