Dr. Niamh Kelly
In personOnlineIMC verified
High blood pressure
High blood pressure often has no symptoms, but some people notice headache, dizziness, chest discomfort or blurred vision. Repeated high readings should be discussed with a clinician because long-term high pressure can affect the heart, brain and kidneys.
When to get emergency care
Get emergency help immediately if you have any of these:
- High blood pressure reading with chest pain, breathlessness, severe headache or confusion.
- High blood pressure with weakness on one side, face drooping, speech trouble, vision loss or seizure.
- High blood pressure with fainting, severe dizziness or new severe vomiting.
- High blood pressure during pregnancy with severe headache, blurred vision, swelling of face or hands, belly pain or fits.
- Very high readings that remain high on repeat checking, especially with any new symptom.
Get emergency help or call 112
Common causes
- Family history and increasing age.
- High salt intake, low activity, stress and excess weight.
- Diabetes, kidney disease or hormone problems.
- Pregnancy-related blood pressure changes.
- Some medicines or substances, which a clinician can review.
What to expect at your consultation
- A clinician may repeat readings with the correct cuff size and ask about home readings.
- They may check urine, kidney function, blood sugar and heart risk factors.
- Long-term follow-up is usually needed if readings stay high.
Looking after yourself
- Keep a written record of readings, dates and symptoms to share with a clinician.
- Reduce extra salt and avoid smoking if possible.
- Do not stop or change prescribed medicines without speaking to a clinician.
Frequently asked questions
- Can high blood pressure be silent?
- Yes. Many people feel normal even when readings are high, so repeat checks and follow-up matter.
- Is headache always from blood pressure?
- No. Headache has many causes, but severe headache with high readings or neurological symptoms needs urgent care.
- Can pregnancy make blood pressure dangerous?
- Yes. High blood pressure in pregnancy can be serious, especially with headache, blurred vision, swelling, belly pain or fits.
- Which doctor should I see for high blood pressure?
- A general physician can start assessment and follow-up. A cardiologist may help when heart risk or difficult control is present.
Not sure how urgent this is?
Answer a few questions and we will tell you how soon to be seen.
Check my symptomsWhich doctor should I see?
- General Physician Good first contact for repeated high readings and whole-person risk assessment.
- Cardiologist Helpful when there is chest pain, heart disease risk, or blood pressure that is hard to control.
- Gynecologist Important when high blood pressure occurs during pregnancy.
Not sure? See a general physician
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