Symptoms of High Blood Pressure

Hypertension has aptly been called the "silent killer" because it usually produces no symptoms. Untreated hypertension increases slowly over the years. It is important for anyone with risk factors to have their blood pressure checked regularly and to make appropriate lifestyle changes. Such recommendations are especially important for individuals who have prehypertension or hypertension, a family history of hypertension, are overweight, or are over age 40.

• People should call a doctor immediately if these symptoms occur:
• Drowsiness
  
• Confusion
  
• Headache
  
• Nausea
  
• Loss of vision