Symptoms of high blood pressure silently killing you

In Australia, high blood pressure, also known as hypertension, is a significant health issue, affecting about 34% of adults. This includes 23% with uncontrolled hypertension and 11% managing their condition with medication (1). As a major risk factor for heart disease and stroke, hypertension can be a silent killer as the symptoms can go undetected. Here we will share the silent symptoms of high blood pressure, and highlight the importance of early detection and management.

In this article you will learn:

• What Is Normal Blood Pressure?
• The Silent Symptoms of High Blood Pressure
• What Causes High Blood Pressure?
• Complications of High Blood Pressure
• Tips To Manage High Blood Pressure

Blood pressure readings, expressed in millimeters of mercury (mmHg), consist of two numbers: the systolic pressure (the higher number) indicates the force your heart exerts on the walls of your arteries with each beat, while the diastolic pressure (the lower number) represents the pressure when your heart is at rest between beats.

• Normal range: 90/60mmHg to 120/80mmHg.
• High blood pressure: 140/90mmHg or higher.
• Ideal blood pressure should ideally be below 120/80mmHg.

Understanding these numbers is crucial for evaluating heart health and identifying hypertension at an early stage (2).

High blood pressure has earned the title “silent killer” due to its lack of obvious symptoms. Many individuals with hypertension may not experience any signs until the condition has advanced and caused significant damage. In fact, roughly 46% of individuals with high blood pressure are not aware of their condition (3). When symptoms do occur, they are often nonspecific and can include:

These symptoms can easily be mistaken for less serious health issues, which is why high blood pressure can go unnoticed for years. However, there are many other subtle signs that may indicate that blood pressure is dangerously high. These include:

It’s vital to seek medical attention if you notice these symptoms, as they may indicate a medical emergency requiring immediate care (3).

The development of high blood pressure is often caused by a combination of lifestyle, genetic and dietary factors, such as:

Additionally, certain chronic conditions like diabetes, kidney disease and thyroid disorders can increase the risk of developing hypertension. Understanding these factors is essential for effective prevention and management (4).

Uncontrolled high blood pressure can lead to severe health complications. These include an increased risk of heart attacks, strokes, heart failure, aneurysms, kidney disease, and vascular dementia. Over time, hypertension can cause blood vessels to weaken and narrow, significantly impacting various organ systems. This underlines the importance of managing blood pressure to prevent such severe outcomes (5).

Effectively managing high blood pressure is crucial in reducing the risk of serious health complications. Lifestyle modifications play a pivotal role and include:

In some cases, medication may also be prescribed to help manage high blood pressure. It’s important to follow the advice of healthcare professionals regarding medication and lifestyle changes (6).

High blood pressure is a significant health issue that can lead to severe health complications if left unmanaged. By understanding the silent symptoms of high blood pressure, causes, and the importance of early detection, you can take proactive steps to maintain your health and prevent long-term complications. Regular medical check-ups and a healthy lifestyle are key components in the effective management of high blood pressure.