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High blood pressure usually has no warning signs. That’s why it’s called a “silent killer.” Most people don’t know they have it until a doctor takes their blood pressure.
If there are symptoms, they may include:
- Headaches
- Chest pain or tightness
- Feeling dizzy or lightheaded
- A very strong or rapid heartbeat
- Problems seeing or hearing (a buzzing or ringing noise)
- Feeling short of breath
- Feeling weak and tired
- Impotence
If you have any of these symptoms, you may have severe high blood pressure or another serious condition. See your doctor.
Blood pressure that is very high (higher than 180/120) is called hypertensive crisis. This is an emergency. If your blood pressure rises this high, go to a hospital right away. If not treated right away, it can cause a stroke. It may cause permanent damage to the brain, heart, kidneys, and/or eyes.
Even high blood pressure over time can cause serious damage like:
- Heart and blood vessel disease. This includes heart failure, heart attack, or abnormal heart beats (arrhythmias).
- Kidney damage, including kidney failure
- Stroke
- Vision problems
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