What are the symptoms of high blood pressure?
High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, is a condition in which blood presses on arterial walls with increased pressure. Blood pressure consists of two measurements: systolic and diastolic pressure.
- Systolic pressure: This is the upper number in blood pressure and represents the blood pressure in the arteries during contraction of the heart (systolic). Normal systolic pressure is less than 120 mm Hg.
- Diastolic pressure: This is the lower number in blood pressure and represents the blood pressure in the arteries between the heartbeats, when the heart is resting (diastole). Normal diastolic pressure is less than 80 mm Hg.
In general, high blood pressure is defined as blood pressure that is constantly elevated above normal levels. Classically, high blood pressure is divided into three stages:
- Mild hypertension: Systolic pressure between 130 and 139 mm Hg or diastolic pressure between 80 and 89 mm Hg.
- Moderate hypertension: Systolic pressure between 140 and 159 mm Hg or diastolic pressure between 90 and 99 mm Hg.
- Severe hypertension: Systolic pressure 160 mm Hg or more or diastolic pressure 100 mm Hg or more.
High blood pressure is an important medical condition because it can increase the risk of serious complications such as heart attack, stroke, heart failure, aneurysm, kidney disease and other cardiovascular problems. In most cases, high blood pressure does not cause symptoms and can only be detected by regularly measuring blood pressure. That is why it is important to regularly monitor blood pressure and consult a doctor if the values are above normal levels.
WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE?
High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, is often referred to as the “silent killer” because in many cases it does not cause any symptoms. This is dangerous because long-term high blood pressure can damage blood vessels and heart and lead to serious health problems, such as stroke, heart attack and kidney failure.
Nevertheless, in some people, high blood pressure may be accompanied by the following symptoms:
Common symptoms:
- Headache, especially in the occipital part of the head, in the morning or after waking up
- Sweating, especially at night
- Fatigue and drowsiness
- Redness of the face and ears
- Vertigo
- Nausea and vomiting
- Sound in the ears (ringing, noise)
- Shortness of breath
- Insomnia
- Changes in vision (e.g. blurred vision)
Less common symptoms:
- Nosebleeds
- Chest pains
- Trembling hands
- Anxiety
- Inability to concentrate
It is important to note that these symptoms can also be caused by other health problems. If you have them, you need to consult your doctor who will help you determine the cause and get the appropriate diagnosis.
Diagnosis of high blood pressure:
The only way to know for sure if you have high blood pressure is to measure it. Measuring blood pressure is a simple and painless procedure that can be performed in a doctor’s office or in a pharmacy. It is recommended that blood pressure be checked regularly, especially if you have risk factors for hypertension, such as:
- Age (over 65 years)
- Family history of high blood pressure
- Obesity or obesity
- Physical inactivity
- Smoking
- Excessive consumption of salt
- Excessive alcohol consumption
Treatment of high blood pressure:
Treatment of high blood pressure depends on the severity of the condition and the causes. In some cases, lifestyle changes may be sufficient, such as:
- Weight reduction
- Regular physical activity
- Healthy diet (rich in fruits, vegetables and fiber, low in salt)
- Restriction of alcohol consumption
- Smoking cessation
In other cases, it is also necessary to take medication. It is important that you follow your doctor’s instructions and take medication regularly to control your blood pressure.
Regular blood pressure control and monitoring of symptoms are key to early detection and treatment of high blood pressure and to prevent serious health complications.
FOR MORE INFORMATION ON SYMPTOMS OF HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE, WATCH THE VIDEO