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5 Common Signs of High Blood Pressure

There is a common misconception that people with high blood pressure (HBP) will experience symptoms such as profuse sweating, facial flushing, difficulty sleeping, and nervousness. The truth is that HBP is largely symptomless. Only when blood pressure readings soar to dangerously high levels may obvious symptoms occur. By this time, the patient is usually in Hypertensive Crisis and emergency treatment is needed.

Common Signs of High Blood Pressure

Note: As already discussed, all the five symptoms mentioned here might only appear in the Hypertensive Crisis phase of high blood pressure.

1.Severe headache

Evidence indicates that hypertensive crisis might cause severe headaches. Interestingly, recent research indicates that people with HBP (before hypertensive crisis) are likely to have significantly fewer headaches than the general public. This is just another reason why you need your pressure checked regularly.

2.Fatigue and confusion

Though often ignored, general tiredness can be a symptom of an underlying health problem. In regards to hypertension, it’s almost impossible to say that someone has HBP just because they look tired. However, if you’re always feeling tired even when you haven’t been working on an energy-draining job, you should seek advice from your doctor.

3.Blood clots in the eyes

Blood spots are often a sign of subconjunctival hemorrhage which are common in people with diabetes and HBP. However, none of the conditions cause blood spots in the eyes. Your cardiologist will make a better judgment.

4.Chest pains and difficulty in breathing

Shortness of breath, particularly when lying down, is considered a specific symptom of heart attack. The same applies to shortness of breath with activity and recurring chest pains.

5.Irregular heartbeat

Irregular heartbeat (arrhythmia) is another common symptom of high blood pressure. HBP is known to increase arrhythmia which can lead to cardiac arrest, heart failure, stroke, and even death.

Dizziness may also be a symptom of hypertension. Research shows that dizziness isn’t directly caused by HBP. However, it can be a side effect of some HBP medications.

Summary

Everyone (even if you feel healthy) is advised to schedule regular checkups with a doctor to determine if their blood pressure is high. This is particularly important if you have a close relative who has been diagnosed with hypertension.

Dr.  Seldon, a Heart Doctor and Cardiologist in New York City, offers same day appointments and all testing is done on site. Call us at (212) 367-8000.