High blood pressure — or hypertension — is often called the "silent killer" because it can go unnoticed for years while quietly causing damage to your body. It affects millions of people worldwide and significantly increases the risk of heart disease, stroke, kidney failure and other serious health complications. Understanding the dangers of high blood pressure and knowing when to seek medical help can make all the difference in preventing long-term health issues.

The dangers of high blood pressure

High blood pressure occurs when the force of blood against the walls of your arteries is consistently too high. Over time, this extra strain can cause severe damage to your body, leading to:

1. Heart disease and stroke: Hypertension is one of the leading causes of heart disease and stroke. The increased pressure can cause arteries to narrow and harden, reducing blood flow to the heart and brain. This can result in heart attacks, strokes or even heart failure.

2. Kidney damage: Your kidneys filter waste from your blood, but high blood pressure can weaken and damage the small blood vessels within the kidneys, leading to kidney disease or failure.

3. Vision loss: Hypertension can damage the blood vessels in your eyes, leading to vision problems and — in severe cases — even blindness.

4. Aneurysms: Prolonged high blood pressure can weaken artery walls, causing them to bulge and form aneurysms. If an aneurysm bursts, it can be life-threatening.

5. Cognitive decline and dementia: Studies suggest that high blood pressure can affect brain function, increasing the risk of memory problems, cognitive decline and dementia.

When to seek help

Since high blood pressure often has no symptoms, regular monitoring is crucial. However, there are warning signs that indicate you should seek medical attention immediately:

• Severe headaches
• Chest pain or shortness of breath
• Dizziness or confusion
• Blurred vision or sudden vision loss
• Nausea or vomiting
• Sudden numbness or weakness in the face, arm or leg (especially on one side of the body)
• Difficulty speaking or understanding speech

If you experience any of these symptoms, seek emergency medical care immediately, as they could indicate a hypertensive crisis, heart attack or stroke.

Managing high blood pressure

The good news is that hypertension is manageable with lifestyle changes and medication if needed. Here are some steps you can take to keep your blood pressure under control:

• Eat a heart-healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean proteins.
• Reduce sodium intake by avoiding processed foods and salty snacks.
• Exercise regularly, aiming for at least 30 minutes of moderate activity most days of the week.
• Maintain a healthy weight to reduce strain on your heart and blood vessels.
• Limit alcohol and avoid tobacco, as both can raise blood pressure.
• Manage stress through relaxation techniques, meditation or engaging in hobbies.
• Monitor your blood pressure regularly and follow your doctor’s recommendations for medication and lifestyle adjustments.

High blood pressure is a serious condition that requires attention and proactive management. Regular check-ups, a healthy lifestyle and prompt medical care can help prevent complications and keep your heart and body healthy. If you or a loved one experience any concerning symptoms, don’t wait — seek medical attention right away.

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