Hypertension, also known as high blood pressure, is a chronic condition in which the blood pressure, or the force of blood, in the arteries is elevated to a point where it may eventually cause other health problems such as heart disease.
A person may have hypertension for a long period of time with no symptoms. But even without symptoms, damage to blood vessels and the heart can still be detected. Uncontrolled high blood pressure can increase risk of heart attack and stroke.
High Blood Pressure Symptoms
Most people do not have signs or symptoms of hypertension. A few people may develop dull headaches, dizzy spells, or may experience extra nosebleeds, but those are typically characteristic of a severe or life-threatening stage of high blood pressure.
Hypertension will most likely be found during a routine doctor’s appointment.
Causes of Hypertension
For most adults, there’s no identifiable cause of high blood pressure. For others, hypertension may be secondary, or caused by another underlying condition. Various conditions and medications can lead to secondary hypertension.
Treatments for High Blood Pressure
Lifestyle changes can make a big impact on a person’s blood pressure. Regular exercise, a healthy diet with low salt, maintaining a healthy weight, not smoking and managing stress levels are natural ways to make those changes. Medications may also be used to control and lower blood pressure.