Around one third of people in the UK are thought to be living with this dangerous condition
Four symptoms that appear in the head could signal a “silent killer” condition. This could mean you are at greater risk of heart attacks and strokes.
Hypertension, commonly known as high blood pressure, is a life-threatening ailment that impacts roughly one-third of the British population. The condition forces the heart to exert additional effort when circulating blood throughout the body.
This places excessive pressure on the heart alongside other vital organs and blood vessels, potentially resulting in significant harm. It also contributes to numerous severe health complications and disorders, such as cardiovascular disease, kidney disease, strokes, heart failure and heart attacks.
Nevertheless, the condition frequently remains undetected and undiagnosed until it triggers a critical medical crisis. Experts believe approximately half of those suffering from hypertension remain unaware of their condition or are not receiving proper treatment.
This is primarily because the condition seldom presents obvious symptoms – hence why it has earned the nickname “silent killer”. However, there are certain warning indicators worth monitoring.
The World Health Organisation (WHO) states that symptoms may emerge when blood pressure reaches “very high” levels. “Most people with hypertension don’t feel any symptoms,” the organisation explains.
“Checking your blood pressure is the best way to know if you have high blood pressure. If hypertension isn’t treated, it can cause other health conditions like kidney disease, heart disease and stroke.”
If your blood pressure reaches 180/120 or above, you may begin experiencing symptoms. According to the WHO, four symptoms related to high blood pressure can manifest in the head, including:
- Severe headaches
- Blurred vision or vision changes
- Nosebleeds
- Buzzing in the ears
The WHO also lists other potential signs such as:
- Chest pain
- Dizziness
- Difficulty breathing
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Anxiety
- Confusion
- Abnormal heart rhythm
The WHO advises: “If you are experiencing any of these symptoms and a high blood pressure, seek care immediately. The only way to detect hypertension is to have a health professional measure blood pressure. Having blood pressure measured is quick and painless.
“Although individuals can measure their own blood pressure using automated devices, an evaluation by a health professional is important for assessment of risk and associated conditions.”
The exact cause of high blood pressure isn’t always clear, but your risk may be increased if you:
- Are overweight
- Consume too much salt and not enough fruit and vegetables
- Don’t exercise regularly
- Drink excessive amounts of alcohol or caffeine-based drinks
- Smoke
- Experience high levels of stress
- Are over 65
- Have a family history of high blood pressure
- Are of black African or black Caribbean descent
- Live in a deprived area
High blood pressure could also be triggered by certain conditions or illnesses such as diabetes or kidney disease. Certain medications like the contraceptive pill and steroids are also known to increase blood pressure.
If you are concerned about your blood pressure you should speak to a GP.