Overview
Usually develops over years and often has no symptoms, but raises risk of heart disease and stroke.
Symptoms Text
Most people have no symptoms, which is why regular checks matter. Severe cases may cause headaches or dizziness.
Causes
Can be primary (develops gradually, no single cause) or secondary (caused by another condition or medicine).
Risk Factors
Age, family history, being overweight, high salt intake, and lack of physical activity.
Diagnosis
Diagnosed by blood pressure measurement over multiple readings.
Treatment
Lifestyle changes and medicines such as lisinopril, an ACE inhibitor.
When To Seek Help
Seek emergency care for a blood pressure reading with chest pain, severe headache, or vision changes.