High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, is often called the “silent killer”—and for good reason. Millions of Americans live with high blood pressure without even knowing it. Over time, uncontrolled hypertension can silently damage your heart, arteries, kidneys, and eyes—leading to serious, sometimes life-threatening complications.
Whether you’ve just been diagnosed or want to understand your risk, this guide breaks down everything you need to know about hypertension, from symptoms and causes to treatment and prevention.
What Is Hypertension?
Hypertension is a chronic condition where the force of the blood against your artery walls is consistently too high. Blood pressure is measured using two numbers:
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Systolic pressure (top number): Pressure when your heart beats
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Diastolic pressure (bottom number): Pressure when your heart rests between beats
A healthy reading is typically around 120/80 mmHg. If your blood pressure consistently measures 130/80 mmHg or higher, it’s considered elevated or high.
Why Is High Blood Pressure Dangerous?
High blood pressure puts constant strain on your blood vessels and vital organs, especially the heart, brain, and kidneys. If left untreated, it can lead to:
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Heart attack or heart failure
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Stroke
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Kidney damage or kidney failure
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Vision loss
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Aneurysms (weakened, bulging blood vessels)
Because most people with high blood pressure don’t experience symptoms, routine checkups are essential for early detection.
Symptoms of Severe or Uncontrolled Hypertension
Most cases of hypertension are symptom-free until significant damage has occurred. However, some people—especially those with extremely high readings—may experience:
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Headaches
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Dizziness or blurred vision
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Shortness of breath
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Chest pain or tightness
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Irregular heartbeat
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Fatigue
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Nosebleeds (in rare or severe cases)
If you experience any of these symptoms, especially along with a high blood pressure reading, seek medical care immediately.
What Causes High Blood Pressure?
High blood pressure can develop slowly over time or appear suddenly due to another condition. There are two main types:
1. Primary (Essential) Hypertension
This is the most common form and usually develops gradually with age. Lifestyle factors and genetics play a big role.
2. Secondary Hypertension
This occurs due to an underlying condition or medication. Common causes include:
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Kidney disease
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Sleep apnea
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Thyroid disorders
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Adrenal gland problems
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Certain medications (like birth control, decongestants, or NSAIDs)
How Is High Blood Pressure Diagnosed?
Diagnosis is usually straightforward. Your provider will take blood pressure readings using a cuff. If readings are high during more than one visit, you may be diagnosed with hypertension.
To understand the underlying cause or impact, your provider may order:
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Blood and urine tests
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Cholesterol and glucose levels
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Electrocardiogram (EKG)
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Kidney function tests
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Home blood pressure monitoring
Managing and Treating Hypertension
The good news is that high blood pressure is both manageable and preventable in many cases. The first line of defense typically includes lifestyle changes that support cardiovascular health. A balanced diet low in sodium and high in potassium—such as the DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) diet—is highly recommended. Regular exercise, aiming for at least 150 minutes of moderate physical activity per week, helps lower blood pressure and improves heart function. Maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding tobacco, limiting alcohol, managing stress, and ensuring quality sleep can all make a significant impact on your overall blood pressure and well-being.
When lifestyle adjustments aren’t enough, your provider may prescribe medication to help control hypertension. Commonly prescribed drugs include ACE inhibitors, angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs), beta-blockers, calcium channel blockers, and diuretics (also known as water pills). The right medication—or combination of medications—depends on your overall health, age, and how your body responds to treatment. Medication, when combined with ongoing lifestyle management, gives many patients a strong, sustainable path toward healthier blood pressure.
Monitoring Your Blood Pressure at Home
Tracking your blood pressure at home is a great way to stay proactive. Here’s how to do it right:
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Use an FDA-approved monitor
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Check at the same time daily (usually morning)
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Sit calmly and avoid caffeine/smoking 30 minutes before
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Record readings in a log for your doctor
Keeping consistent readings can help your provider fine-tune your treatment plan.
When to See a Cardiologist
While primary care doctors often manage early or moderate stages of high blood pressure, certain situations call for evaluation by a cardiologist, a doctor who specializes in heart health.
You should see a cardiologist if:
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Your blood pressure remains high despite medication
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You have additional risk factors like diabetes or high cholesterol
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You have a family history of heart disease
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You experience symptoms like chest pain, shortness of breath, or an irregular heartbeat
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You’ve had a heart attack, stroke, or heart failure in the past
A cardiologist can run specialized tests such as an echocardiogram or stress test and develop a more advanced treatment plan tailored to protect your heart long-term. Early evaluation can prevent serious complications—and save your life.
Final Thoughts: Take Control Before It Controls You
Hypertension doesn’t have to control your life—but ignoring it can have serious consequences. With the right care, most people can manage high blood pressure effectively and live full, active lives. Early diagnosis, lifestyle changes, and support from the right healthcare team make all the difference.
Ready to Take Charge of Your Heart Health?
If you’ve been diagnosed with high blood pressure—or suspect you may have it—schedule an appointment with our team. From prevention and diagnosis to expert treatment and monitoring, we’re here to help you stay healthy, informed, and in control.