Hypertension (High Blood Pressure)
Welcome to the Hypertension category at
ReviewPoints.
Here you’ll find clear, practical information about high blood pressure — what it is, common symptoms, how it’s diagnosed, treatment options, and everyday steps you can take to manage or reduce your risk.
What is Hypertension?
Hypertension, commonly called high blood pressure, is a medical condition where the force of blood pushing against the walls of your arteries is consistently too high.
Over time, uncontrolled high blood pressure can increase the risk of heart disease, stroke, kidney problems, and other complications.
Symptoms & Signs
Hypertension is often called a “silent” condition because many people have no obvious symptoms. However, when symptoms do occur they may include:
Severe headaches
Dizziness or lightheadedness
Shortness of breath
Nosebleeds (less common)
Blurred vision or chest pain (seek immediate care)
If you experience chest pain, sudden weakness, difficulty speaking, or severe shortness of breath — seek emergency medical help right away.
Causes & Risk Factors
There are two main types of high blood pressure:
Primary (essential) hypertension — the most common form; develops gradually with no single identifiable cause.
Secondary hypertension — results from another condition (e.g., kidney disease, certain medications, endocrine disorders) and can appear suddenly.
Common risk factors include older age, family history, overweight/obesity, lack of physical activity, high-sodium diet, excessive alcohol use, tobacco use, and chronic stress.
Diagnosis & Monitoring
High blood pressure is diagnosed with repeated blood pressure measurements. Your provider may use:
Automated office readings
Ambulatory (24-hour) blood pressure monitoring
Home blood pressure monitoring
Guidelines and thresholds can vary, so discuss your numbers with a healthcare professional to understand what they mean for you.
Treatment Options
Treatment often combines lifestyle changes and, when needed, medication. Typical approaches include:
Lifestyle changes: heart-healthy diet (reduce sodium), regular physical activity, weight management, moderate alcohol intake, and quitting tobacco.
Medications: ACE inhibitors, ARBs, calcium channel blockers, diuretics, and others — prescribed based on individual needs and coexisting conditions.
Regular follow-up: periodic blood pressure checks and medication adjustments as needed.
Note: This is informational content only — not medical advice. Always consult a licensed healthcare professional before starting or stopping medication.
Prevention & Self-Care Tips
Adopt a low-sodium, balanced diet (e.g., DASH-style eating).
Engage in regular aerobic exercise (aim for ~150 minutes/week of moderate activity).
Maintain a healthy weight and manage stress.
Limit alcohol, avoid tobacco, and get adequate sleep.
Monitor blood pressure at home and keep records to share with your doctor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How often should I check my blood pressure?
Follow your provider’s recommendation — often daily when adjusting treatment, otherwise weekly or as advised.
Can lifestyle changes really lower blood pressure?
Yes — diet, exercise, and weight loss can significantly reduce blood pressure and sometimes reduce the need for medication.
Is hypertension curable?
While primary hypertension is usually a lifelong condition, it can be effectively managed with lifestyle changes and medication. Secondary hypertension may be cured if the underlying cause is treated.
Learn More on ReviewPoints
Explore expert-reviewed articles, product comparisons, and practical guides in our ReviewPoints Health section to help you manage hypertension wisely.
If you’re looking for device reviews (home BP monitors), treatment comparisons, or lifestyle product recommendations, check our related posts and guides.
Remember: This page provides general information. For personalized medical advice, contact your healthcare provider.
