Blood pressure measures the force of blood against the walls of your arteries. Your blood pressure fluctuates throughout the day. If it stays high for weeks or months, your heart has to work harder to pump blood. This is high blood pressure, also known as hypertension. Untreated high blood pressure can damage the walls of your blood vessels and arteries. It can cause serious health problems, including stroke, heart attack, kidney disease and kidney failure, vision problems, and dementia.
Common types of high blood pressure:
High blood pressure can be classified as primary or essential hypertension and secondary hypertension.
- Primary hypertension is high blood pressure with no known cause. In people with this condition, the body’s smaller arteries become narrower, forcing the heart to pump harder to circulate blood to distant organs and limbs, increasing blood pressure.
- Essential hypertension accounts for 5% of all cases of high blood pressure. Aging and unhealthy habits such as lack of exercise are often associated with this type of high blood pressure. Secondary hypertension is often the result of health problems such as kidney disorders, hormonal disorders, or the use of certain medications.
What are the external signs of high blood pressure?
High blood pressure often presents with a variety of symptoms, some of which can be mistaken for other health problems. Here are the top 10 signs of high blood pressure that you should never ignore:
1. Headaches (especially in the morning)
Frequent morning headaches can be a sign of high blood pressure. Pressure on the head can cause tension and discomfort, signaling the need for medical attention.
2. Chest pain
Pain or discomfort in the chest can be a sign of heart problems related to high blood pressure. If you experience this symptom, it is essential to seek medical advice immediately.
3. Shortness of breath
Shortness of breath or shortness of breath, especially during physical activity, can indicate that your heart is having problems due to high blood pressure.
4. Dizziness or blurred vision
High blood pressure can affect your vision and balance. Dizziness or blurred vision should be checked immediately to rule out problems related to high blood pressure.
5. Nosebleeds
While occasional nosebleeds are common, frequent or unexplained nosebleeds can be a sign of high blood pressure. If you notice this symptom, consult a healthcare professional.
6. Fatigue or confusion
Unexplained fatigue or confusion can be caused by insufficient blood flow to the brain due to high blood pressure. Recognizing these changes is important for prompt intervention.
7. Chest, neck or ear pain
A pounding or pressure sensation in the chest, neck or ears can be a sign of high blood pressure. This symptom is often accompanied by a rapid heart rate and anxiety.
8. Blood in the urine
Hematuria, also known as blood in the urine, can be a serious sign that requires immediate medical attention. This condition can be related to kidney damage caused by long-term high blood pressure.
9. Irregular heartbeat
A heart attack or irregular heartbeat is a warning sign of high blood pressure. If you experience these symptoms, it is important to monitor your blood pressure and see your doctor.
10. Hypertensive Crisis
A hypertensive crisis occurs when blood pressure reaches 180/120 mmHg or higher. Symptoms may include severe headache, anxiety, and shortness of breath. This condition requires emergency medical attention.
