Symptoms of High Blood Pressure

High blood pressure is often called a silent condition because it usually causes no symptoms for years. The only reliable way to know is to measure it.

Most people notice nothing

Feeling well does not mean your pressure is normal. Damage to the heart, brain, kidneys and eyes can build up quietly.

Symptoms that may appear with very high pressure

• Headache, often at the back of the head
• Dizziness or a pounding feeling in the head or ears
• Blurred vision
• Nosebleeds, though these are not a reliable sign
• Tiredness, breathlessness or palpitations
• Chest discomfort

These symptoms are not specific and can have other causes.

Signs of a hypertensive emergency (call 112 or 102)

• Severe headache with confusion or drowsiness
• Chest pain or severe shortness of breath
• Weakness, numbness or drooping on one side of the face or body
• Difficulty speaking or sudden vision loss
• Seizure
• A very high reading, for example around 180/120 mmHg or higher, with any of these symptoms

In pregnancy

A new rise in blood pressure with severe headache, vision changes, upper belly pain or sudden swelling needs urgent care, because it may be pre-eclampsia.

Key point

Do not wait for symptoms. Check your blood pressure regularly, especially after age 30, or earlier with a family history.

Before your appointment

Bring your home blood pressure log, with dates and times. List all medicines and supplements, including painkillers, herbal products and any Ayurvedic preparations. Note symptoms such as headache, chest pain or breathlessness, family history, salt intake, alcohol, sleep and any pregnancy plans. Ask about your target pressure, tests, medicines and the warning signs that mean you should call 112 or 102.