Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is a serious health condition. In most cases, it exists without symptoms, so getting tested is important. If left undiagnosed and/or untreated, it can lead to serious complications. If you notice any of the symptoms that are suggestive of severe high blood pressure, you need immediate medical attention. By the time severe symptoms occur, you are at a high risk of a heart attack or stroke.
Hypertensive Crisis
According to the America Heart Association, a blood pressure reading of 180 or higher (systolic, or top number), or 110 or higher (diastolic, or bottom number) indicates a hypertensive crisis. This condition may be accompanied by a sudden and severe headache, a nosebleed, feelings of anxiety and trouble catching your breath.
Malignant Hypertension
The National Institutes of Health state that malignant hypertension is defined as the sudden and rapid development of extremely high blood pressure, where the diastolic, or lower blood pressure reading, normally around 80 mmHg, gets to be above 130 mmHg. The symptoms of this condition include blurred vision, numbness or weakness in the face, arms or legs, excessive fatigue, chest pain, nausea, vomiting and seizures.
Health Problems
Since high blood pressure can go on for years without symptoms, the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute states that serious health problems may be your only warning sign. This can include heart attack, stroke and kidney disease. In addition, your first symptoms of high blood pressure may be an irregular heartbeat (arrhythmia) and heart failure. If the vessels that supply your eyes are effected, you may notice changes to your vision and even become blind.
