Overview
Hypertension means the pressure of blood in your arteries stays too high, silently straining the heart, brain, kidneys and eyes. It is very common — affecting a large share of adults — and most people feel completely fine, which is why it is called a silent killer. Regular blood-pressure checks are the only way to catch it.
Symptoms
- Usually no symptoms at all
- Headaches (occasionally, when very high)
- Dizziness
- Blurred vision
- Nosebleeds (rare)
- Chest discomfort or breathlessness in severe cases
Causes & risk factors
- Family history of hypertension
- High salt intake (including processed and packaged foods)
- Obesity and physical inactivity
- Stress, smoking and heavy alcohol use
- Increasing age
Treatment & self-care
Treatment combines daily blood-pressure tablets your doctor selects with less salt, more fruits and vegetables, regular exercise, weight control and limited alcohol. The medicines are taken every day, even when you feel well — stopping when you "feel fine" is how strokes happen. Check your BP regularly and keep follow-up appointments.
See a doctor urgently if
- BP readings consistently 140/90 or higher
- Severe headache with very high BP
- Chest pain, breathlessness or palpitations
- Sudden weakness, slurred speech or facial droop
- Swollen legs or reduced urine