High blood pressure (hypertension) is often called the "silent killer" because it usually has no symptoms until it reaches a severe stage. Most people are unaware they have high blood pressure unless it's regularly checked by a healthcare professional. However, some severe cases may present with certain symptoms.
Symptoms of Severe High Blood Pressure:
While the absence of symptoms is typical, some people experiencing a hypertensive crisis (extremely high blood pressure) may experience the following:
- Blurry or double vision: Impaired vision can be a sign of dangerously high blood pressure affecting the blood vessels in the eyes.
- Lightheadedness/fainting: A sudden drop in blood pressure can lead to lightheadedness or fainting.
- Fatigue: Persistent tiredness and exhaustion can sometimes indicate high blood pressure, especially if combined with other symptoms.
- Headache: Severe, persistent headaches, especially those occurring in the back of the head, may be a symptom.
- Heart palpitations: An abnormally fast or irregular heartbeat is potentially related to elevated blood pressure placing extra strain on the heart.
- Nosebleeds: Frequent or unusually severe nosebleeds could be a sign of high blood pressure affecting blood vessels in the nose.
- Shortness of breath: Difficulty breathing can arise if high blood pressure affects the heart and lungs.
- Nausea and/or vomiting: These symptoms are more likely in a hypertensive crisis.
- Chest pain: High blood pressure can strain the heart, potentially leading to chest discomfort.
- Dizziness: Feeling dizzy or unsteady could be an indication of dangerously high blood pressure.
It's crucial to remember that these symptoms aren't specific to high blood pressure alone and can be caused by various other health issues. The only reliable way to determine if you have high blood pressure is through regular blood pressure checks by your doctor or other healthcare provider.
