High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, poses a significant health risk, particularly for older individuals. Elevated blood pressure levels can exert additional stress on vital organs, leading to severe health events such as heart attacks and strokes. Despite the ability of fitness and regular exercise to mitigate the risk of high blood pressure, factors such as genetics and aging also play a role. Cardiologist Dr. Evan Levine has taken to TikTok to impart his knowledge, sharing the common indicators of high blood pressure that people should watch for.
In his informative TikTok video, Dr. Levine lists the seven most common symptoms associated with high blood pressure that everyone should be aware of.
- Headaches
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Dr. Levine highlights headaches as the first symptom of high blood pressure, emphasizing that they can occasionally indicate a hypertensive crisis, which constitutes a medical emergency characterized by dangerously high blood pressure.
- Blurred Vision
The second symptom he mentions is blurred vision, which is quite common among those with high blood pressure. Individuals with this condition face an increased risk of developing hypertensive retinopathy, leading to damage to the small blood vessels in the retina.
- Shortness of Breath
Dr. Levine indicates that shortness of breath, particularly while walking, can be an indication of high blood pressure, specifically pulmonary hypertension, which increases the heart’s workload.
- Chest Pain
Chest pains, resembling angina, when associated with high blood pressure could indicate heart-related issues, requiring immediate medical attention.
- Nosebleeds
Nosebleeds could also be caused by high blood pressure, especially when the levels are exceptionally high, leading to potential damage to nasal vessels.
- Frothy Urine
Extended issues with uncontrolled hypertension may lead to the spilling of protein into the urine, indicating potential harm to the kidneys' filtration system.
- Nothing
Lastly, Dr. Levine emphasizes the importance of regular blood pressure checks, as the absence of symptoms, often referred to as the “silent killer,” can lead to severe health complications. He provides practical advice on how to check blood pressure at home using an Omron blood pressure cuff.
It’s crucial for individuals who suspect they may have high blood pressure to contact their GP or visit a pharmacy for a blood pressure check. In case of sudden chest pain or discomfort that doesn’t subside, seeking immediate medical assistance is imperative.