This article explains the symptoms of hypertension and hypertensive emergencies.
It also discusses when to see a healthcare provider.
Generally, hypertension symptoms can happen at any time, do not last for long, and may recur.
Verywell Illustration
They include:
Recurrent Headaches
Headaches are fairly common, with or without hypertension.
Dizziness due to hypertension can be a sign of stroke.
In people with pulmonary hypertension, the arteries in the lungs are narrowed or blocked.
Get our printable guide for your next healthcare provider’s appointment to help you ask the right questions.
The following symptoms of hypertensive crisis should never be ignored.
If you develop any of them, call 911 or seek immediate medical attention.
Keep in mind that a severe headache can be a warning sign of a stroke.
In some cases, a headache develops days or up to a week before the stroke.
But most of the time, the headache develops in under 60 seconds.
Stroke survivors often call it the worst headache of their life.
The pain may feel like pressure or a squeezing sensation in the chest.
Some describe it as the chest feeling full.
It is typically located in the center orleft side of the chestand may be mild or severe.
Sudden nausea or vomiting may also be a sign of stroke or heart attack.
Nosebleed
Hypertension may damage blood vessels in the nasal passages, eventually leading tonosebleeds.
This symptom is uncommon, and more likely to occur when hypertension is severe.
It can develop gradually over time in people with chronic, uncontrolled hypertension.
Or, although rare, it can develop rapidly during a hypertensive crisis.
Get our printable guide for your next healthcare provider’s appointment to help you ask the right questions.
Summary
Most people with hypertension do not develop symptoms unless the hypertension becomes severe or complications develop.
This makes it all the more important to check your blood pressure regularly.
Many of these symptoms can be a sign of stroke or heart attack, too.
If you develop any new, unusual, or severe symptoms of hypertension, get immediate medical attention.
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