Hypertension, sometimes known as high blood pressure, frequently has few or no symptoms. Because so many people have hypertension without experiencing any symptoms, it is known as the “silent killer”. However, just because high blood pressure frequently goes unnoticed does not imply that it is perfectly harmless. In actuality, uncontrolled high blood pressure, also known as hypertension, harms your arteries, particularly those in the eyes and kidneys. A risk factor for heart attack, stroke, and other cardiovascular issues is high blood pressure.
Here are some high blood pressure symptoms to look out for if you are concerned that you may have high blood pressure:
Blood spots found in the eyes
People with diabetes or high blood pressure are more likely to experience blood spots in their eyes (subconjunctival haemorrhage). However, neither condition is the actual cause of the blood spots. Additionally, ocular floaters and high blood pressure are unrelated. An ophthalmologist, however, might be able to spot damage to the optic nerve brought on by untreated high blood pressure.
Flushing of the face
A flushed appearance is brought on by enlarged blood vessels in the face. It could occur unexpectedly or in response to certain triggers like sun exposure, cold temperatures, spicy foods, wind, hot beverages, and skin-care products. Blood pressure might momentarily rise as a result of exercise, alcohol consumption, heat exposure, hot water exposure, mental tension, and flushing of the face. Although having high blood pressure might cause flushing of the face, high blood pressure alone does not cause facial flushing.
Feeling dizzy
Dizziness is not a sign of high blood pressure, despite the fact that it can be a side effect of several blood pressure medications. However, dizziness shouldn’t be ignored if it suddenly arises. Sudden dizziness, loss of balance or coordination, and difficulty walking are all stroke warning signs.
Blood pressure reading above 140/90
Values for blood pressure are represented by two numbers. Your systolic blood pressure is the top figure, and your diastolic blood pressure is the bottom number. Typically, a result of more than 120 over 80 and less than 140 over 90 was considered to be normal.
To diagnose hypertension, blood pressure values were previously set at 130/80 mm Hg or greater for all adults. However, leading heart health organizations from all over the world unanimously resolved to drop this threshold to 130/80 mm Hg or higher in 2017. According to this new standard, if your readings are greater than 130/80 mm Hg, you should see a doctor right away or look into measures to lower your blood pressure.
Monitoring your blood pressure is crucial, particularly if you lead an unhealthy lifestyle or have a family history of hypertension. To keep an eye on your blood pressure, you may easily get a blood pressure monitor from your neighbourhood pharmacy and drugstore. The readings are quite precise and resemble what you would receive in a hospital.
As a result of your body’s activity level, hydration, sleep, food consumption, and other factors, your blood pressure is always fluctuating. You might need to take numerous blood pressure readings over time to achieve an accurate reading.
Prehypertension
A systolic pressure of 120–139 mm Hg or a diastolic pressure of 80–89 mm Hg is considered to be prehypertension. Because blood pressure fluctuates frequently, your doctor will check it on several separate days before determining whether it is too high for you.
Experiences brain fog
Mild, recurring headaches and “brain fog” are two conditions that some hypertensive patients may encounter. This disorder, which causes amnesia, and difficulties with learning, memory, and cognition, happens when the oxygen flow to the brain is inadequate or blocked. Long-term undiagnosed hypertension may affect overall brain health, raising the risk of dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.
You should see a doctor immediately if you have been having regular, excruciating headaches or have been suffering from severe brain fog.
Changes in vision
Blood is supplied to the eyes through tiny, sensitive blood vessels. Chronically elevated blood pressure can restrict blood flow and harm the blood vessels. If fluid accumulates beneath the retina, you can have trouble focusing on objects. These obstructions may result in vision distortion or even total blindness. Make an appointment to visit a doctor straight soon if you have noticeable swelling in your eyes or hazy vision.
Anxiety
Anxiety does not result in chronic high blood pressure. However, anxiety attacks can result in sharp, short increases in blood pressure. Both chronically high blood pressure and those short increases in blood pressure have the potential to harm blood vessels, the heart, and the kidneys if they happen frequently, such as every day.
Takeaway
One needs to maintain a normal bp. In this way, an individual will be able to lead a healthy life and avoid many life-threatening diseases at the initial stages.
Adam Mulligan did his degree in psychology at the University of Hertfordshire. He is interested in mental health, wellness, and lifestyle.
