How to Know if You Have High Blood Pressure
By Sara Butler
If you’re trying to find out the symptoms of high blood pressure, you may be surprised to find out that there aren’t really any. This is why high blood pressure is often referred to as the “silent killer,” because there’s no real sign to alert you if something is wrong. Here are some recommendations from the American Heart Association to help you keep tabs on your blood pressure and prevent it from getting out of control.
The Myths of High Blood Pressure
Some people are under the impression that if they have high blood pressure, they’ll know through headaches or nosebleeds. In truth, high blood pressure has not been found to cause these symptoms. If you do experience a headache with a nosebleed and your blood pressure is over 180/120 mm Hg, then you need to seek emergency help.
A few other symptoms have also been attributed to high blood pressure over the years, such as:
- Blood spots in the eyes – These are more common in people with high blood pressure or diabetes, but they’re not a caused by either condition. Floaters you may see in your field of vision are also not related to high blood pressure, but your eye doctor may be able to tell by the health of the blood vessels in your eyes if you have untreated high blood pressure.
- Dizziness – Dizziness is often a side effect of some medications, but it’s not caused by high blood pressure. If you do experience bouts of dizziness, don’t ignore them – especially if the onset is very sudden. Loss of balance, dizziness, and trouble walking can be a sign of a stroke and emergency medical help is needed. High blood pressure is a risk factor for a stroke.
- Flushing of the face – Flushing occurs when the blood vessels close to the surface of the skin dilate. It can happen in response to many things, such as sun exposure, wind, spicy foods, or hot drinks. It can also be caused by emotional stress. This isn’t an indication that you have high blood pressure.
What You Can Do
First and foremost, don’t attempt to diagnose yourself. If you’re worried about your blood pressure, then seek the help of a trusted medical professional in your life. You need a clinical diagnosis in order to help keep you healthy. Also, know your blood pressure numbers and make changes that can help you to be healthier.
For more information about high blood pressure and how you can work to avoid it, talk to a trusted medical professional.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Fitchburg, Wis.