High blood pressure is sometimes called a “silent” condition because most people do not feel that their blood pressure is elevated. A person may look and feel well while persistently high pressure gradually affects the arteries and vital organs. This is why checking your blood pressure is more reliable than waiting for symptoms.
What is high blood pressure?
Blood pressure measures the force of blood against the artery walls. It is recorded as two numbers: systolic pressure, when the heart contracts, and diastolic pressure, when the heart relaxes. A single high reading does not always confirm hypertension. Diagnosis normally depends on repeated, correctly taken measurements and an assessment by a healthcare professional. Home readings or ambulatory monitoring may also be recommended.
Why can hypertension be dangerous?
When blood pressure remains high, the heart works harder and blood vessels can become damaged. Over time, uncontrolled hypertension increases the risk of heart disease, stroke, kidney disease, eye problems and other complications. Early detection allows your doctor to assess the cause, identify related risks and build an appropriate treatment plan.
Who should monitor their blood pressure?
Regular screening is important for adults, especially people with a family history of hypertension, excess weight, diabetes, kidney disease, sleep apnea, high dietary sodium intake, low physical activity, smoking or ongoing stress. Risk also rises with age. Some medicines and underlying medical conditions may increase blood pressure, so tell your doctor about all medications and supplements you use.
How to get a more accurate reading
Avoid exercise, caffeine and smoking shortly before measurement. Sit quietly for about five minutes with your back supported, feet flat on the floor and arm supported at heart level. Use a validated upper-arm monitor with the correct cuff size. Take readings at similar times and record them for your doctor. Do not stop prescribed blood-pressure medicine because a home reading looks normal.
When is urgent care needed?
Very high blood pressure accompanied by chest pain, difficulty breathing, sudden severe headache, weakness or numbness, confusion, speech difficulty or a sudden change in vision may indicate an emergency. Seek urgent medical care rather than waiting for the pressure to fall on its own.
Can high blood pressure be controlled?
Many people manage hypertension through a combination of medical follow-up, prescribed treatment and sustainable lifestyle changes. These may include reducing excess sodium, eating a balanced diet, being physically active, maintaining a healthy weight, sleeping well and avoiding tobacco. Treatment must be individualized.
If you have not checked your blood pressure recently, or your home readings are repeatedly elevated, arrange an assessment with an internal medicine doctor. This article is for general education and does not replace medical diagnosis or treatment.