Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is referred to as a "silent killer" because it can lead to strokes without previous symptoms, explains the Heart and Stroke Foundation. Hypertension is a measure of the force of blood pumped in the blood vessels by the contraction of the heart. Strokes are a leading cause of disability and death in both men and women. A transient ischemic attack (TIA), or mini-stroke, may occur some time before a complete stroke occurs, and symptoms usually last only for a few minutes to a few hours. The University of Maryland Medical Center advises that it is important to recognize symptoms of a stroke because early treatment is critical to prevent permanent damage and disability to the brain and body and for survival.
Confusion and Dizziness
According to the MayoClinic.com, dizziness and confusion are symptoms of both prolonged hypertension and a TIA and stroke. A TIA and stroke occur when there is decreased blood flow to the brain, which can damage cells of the brain temporarily or permanently. At the outset of a stroke, dizziness may be sudden and severe and cause falls or the inability to stand or walk. Confusion may occur with symptoms such as the inability to speak or disjointed or slurred speech.
Headache
A TIA or a full-blown stroke can impede the flow of oxygen-rich blood to the brain, causing headache pain. Individuals with chronic hypertension may also experience headaches. The American Heart Association notes that both a TIA and a stroke can cause severe headache pain that is debilitating and requires medical attention. The headache pain may occur on its own or along with a stiff neck, vomiting, nausea and a loss of consciousness.
Vision Problems
Chronic hypertension and strokes can both cause vision problems such as blurriness, seeing spots or the inability to focus. A stroke can result in more severe and sudden symptoms such as the loss of sight in one eye and weakness or paralysis in the eyelid on the same side of the face.
Paralysis and Numbness
Paralysis and numbness are characteristic symptoms of a TIA and stroke, and some numbness or tingling may also be a sign of hypertension. The Texas Heart Institute notes that a TIA may cause paralysis or numbness that is temporary, while a stroke can cause permanent and severe disability such as hemiplegia or paralysis on one side of the body. Paralysis due to a TIA and stroke can cause facial muscle drooping that is usually noticeable around the mouth, as well as difficulty speaking and swallowing and difficulty walking or using the hand and limbs on one side of the body.
