High blood pressure usually causes no noticeable symptoms, but in severe cases the body can send serious warning signs.
High blood pressure often has no symptoms
For most people, high blood pressure does not cause clear signs or physical discomfort. You can have the condition without realizing it.
Why it is called the silent killer
Because symptoms are typically absent, high blood pressure is often discovered only during a routine measurement in a health care setting.
Symptoms may appear at extremely high levels
Although high blood pressure usually goes unnoticed, symptoms can occur when readings become dangerously high.
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Chest pain can be a warning sign
Chest pain may occur when blood pressure is higher than 180 over 120 and requires immediate attention.
Shortness of breath may signal danger
Experiencing shortness of breath together with extremely high blood pressure can indicate a serious situation.
Back pain can occur during a hypertensive crisis
Sudden back pain is listed as a possible symptom when blood pressure reaches critical levels.
Numbness may be a serious symptom
A feeling of numbness can appear in connection with a hypertensive emergency.
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Weakness in the body should be taken seriously
Sudden weakness combined with extremely high blood pressure is a warning sign that requires urgent action.
Changes in vision can be related to blood pressure
Vision changes are among the symptoms that may occur when blood pressure is critically elevated.
Difficulty speaking can indicate an emergency
Trouble speaking along with a blood pressure reading above 180 over 120 may signal a hypertensive emergency.
When to call emergency services
If your blood pressure is higher than 180 over 120 and you experience chest pain, shortness of breath, back pain, numbness, weakness, changes in vision or difficulty speaking, you should call 911 immediately.
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Severe high blood pressure without symptoms
If your blood pressure is above 180 over 120 but you do not have symptoms, you should contact your health care professional as soon as possible.
Measurement is essential
Since high blood pressure often has no symptoms, measuring your blood pressure is the only way to know whether you have the condition.
Sources: American Heart Association
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