Reviewed by medical experts • For informational purposes only
High blood pressure is often silent. Symptoms of very high pressure and emergency signs that need 112 or 102.
High blood pressure is often called a silent condition because it usually causes no symptoms for years. The only reliable way to know is to measure it.
Most people notice nothing
Feeling well does not mean your pressure is normal. Damage to the heart, brain, kidneys and eyes can build up quietly.
Symptoms that may appear with very high pressure
These symptoms are not specific and can have other causes.
Signs of a hypertensive emergency (call 112 or 102)
In pregnancy
A new rise in blood pressure with severe headache, vision changes, upper belly pain or sudden swelling needs urgent care, because it may be pre-eclampsia.
Key point
Do not wait for symptoms. Check your blood pressure regularly, especially after age 30, or earlier with a family history.
Before your appointment
Bring your home blood pressure log, with dates and times. List all medicines and supplements, including painkillers, herbal products and any Ayurvedic preparations. Note symptoms such as headache, chest pain or breathlessness, family history, salt intake, alcohol, sleep and any pregnancy plans. Ask about your target pressure, tests, medicines and the warning signs that mean you should call 112 or 102.
Written By
Dr. Daksh
BDS
Reviewed By
Dr. Varun Gupta
MD Pharmacology, MBBS
Last updated on
27 Sep 2022 • 06:23 PM (IST)
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Ayurveda identifies high blood pressure as Ucca Raktacapa, viewing it as a systemic imbalance within the blood-carrying and nutritional channels. It primarily involves a Vata-Pitta disturbance where aggravated energies agitate the blood tissue. When the digestive fire, or Agni, is impaired, metabolic toxins known as Ama accumulate and obstruct circulatory pathways, forcing the heart to exert excessive pressure. This condition is frequently aggravated by stress and excessive salt. Management focuses on clearing these obstructions and providing cardiotonic support. Key remedies include Sarpagandha, which revolutionized hypertension treatment, and Arjunarishta to strengthen the heart. By purifying the body's channels and restoring internal harmony, Ayurveda provides a holistic path to managing hypertension from its fundamental cause.
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