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Some studies suggest that symptoms like headache, dizziness, breathlessness, fatigue, palpitations, insomnia, anxiety, and depression may be related to high blood pressure, while other studies indicate that these symptoms are not consistently associated with high blood pressure.
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High blood pressure, or hypertension, is often referred to as a "silent killer" because it can occur without noticeable symptoms. However, when symptoms do manifest, they can be indicative of severe hypertension or related complications. Here are the top 10 symptoms associated with high blood pressure:
Headaches are one of the most commonly reported symptoms of high blood pressure. Studies have shown that a significant percentage of individuals with severe hypertension experience headaches .
Dizziness or light-headedness is another frequent symptom. It is particularly noted in individuals with very high systolic blood pressure (SBP) and is more pronounced in women .
Breathlessness or shortness of breath can occur in cases of severe hypertension. This symptom is often a sign that the heart is struggling to pump blood effectively due to the increased pressure .
Feeling unusually tired or fatigued is a common complaint among those with high blood pressure. This symptom can be attributed to the heart working harder to pump blood through the body .
Heart palpitations, or the sensation of a racing or pounding heart, are reported by some individuals with high blood pressure. This symptom tends to be more common in younger men .
Chest pain or tightness can be a serious symptom of high blood pressure, indicating potential heart complications. This symptom is more frequently reported by younger men .
High blood pressure can lead to visual disturbances, such as blurred vision or seeing spots. These symptoms can be a result of damage to the blood vessels in the eyes.
Tinnitus, or ringing in the ears, is another symptom that can be associated with high blood pressure. This symptom is reported with similar prevalence in both hypertensive and normotensive individuals.
Difficulty sleeping or insomnia can be linked to high blood pressure. This symptom may be due to the physical discomfort or anxiety associated with hypertension.
Mental health symptoms such as anxiety and depression are also reported among individuals with high blood pressure. These symptoms may reflect the stress and worry about managing the condition.
While high blood pressure is often symptomless, the presence of symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, shortness of breath, fatigue, palpitations, chest pain, visual and hearing problems, insomnia, and mental health issues can indicate severe hypertension or related complications. Recognizing these symptoms can prompt timely medical intervention and management.
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