MayoClinic.com describes blood pressure as a relationship between the amount of blood being pumped and the resistance to the flow of blood in the arteries. High blood pressure, or HBP, is defined as a reading higher than 120/80. It is a primary warning sign of stroke and heart attack. Early hypertension often occurs silently, with no signs or symptoms of HBP. The best way to determine if a patient has high blood pressure is to take a simple, non-invasive blood pressure reading.
Headaches
According to the American Heart Association, people with mild HBP rarely report suffering from headaches. When pressure readings reach 180/100, however, it is considered a medical emergency and can be accompanied by headache.
Dizziness
MayoClinic.com states that dizziness is a symptom of HBP, while the American Heart Association states it is more likely a side effect of hypertension medication. Either way, both recommend that patients report symptoms of dizziness or lightheadedness to their physician.
Nosebleeds
Nosebleeds are only experienced by approximately 17 percent of patients with HBP. The American Heart Association stresses that the other 83 percent of patients never experience a nose bleed. Nose bleed alone is not a strong indicator of HBP.
