“Think your blood pressure must be normal because you don’t have a headache and feel perfectly fine? High blood pressure can sneak in without even ringing the doorbell.”
1. Repeated or Severe Headaches
A headache alone does not mean you have high blood pressure. However, if your blood pressure is extremely high and you suddenly develop a severe headache, do not simply silence it with a pain reliever. It should be checked promptly.
2. Dizziness or Trouble Keeping Your Balance
Feeling lightheaded when you stand up can have many causes, including dehydration or low blood pressure. However, if dizziness keeps happening or is accompanied by slurred speech or weakness on one side of the body, seek emergency medical care immediately.
3. Blurred or Unusual Vision
Sudden blurred vision, double vision, or other visual changes may not be just an eye problem. Severely elevated blood pressure can place added strain on the blood vessels in the eyes and brain.
4. Chest Pain or Pressure
A squeezing sensation, pressure, or pain in the chest is not something to dismiss as simple indigestion. Your stomach may be innocent, so it is important to rule out a heart-related emergency first.
5. Shortness of Breath
If you feel short of breath even while resting, especially when chest pain is also present, it may be a medical emergency. When blood pressure is extremely high, do not wait for the symptoms to pass on their own.
6. Weakness or Numbness on One Side
A drooping face, difficulty raising one arm, or trouble speaking clearly may be warning signs of a stroke. While you are thinking, “Maybe I’ll feel better after resting,” the critical treatment window keeps moving.
7. A Blood Pressure Reading of 180/120 mmHg or Higher
Rest quietly for about five minutes and check your blood pressure again. If the reading is still 180/120 mmHg or higher and you also have chest pain, shortness of breath, vision changes, numbness, weakness, or difficulty speaking, call 911 immediately.
The most reliable warning sign of high blood pressure is often the number shown on the monitor. Even when you feel fine, check your blood pressure regularly at home. If your readings remain high, speak with a healthcare professional.
※ This article is for general health information only and is not a substitute for medical diagnosis or treatment. Seek emergency care immediately for sudden chest pain, difficulty breathing, paralysis, numbness, or trouble speaking.
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