Since hypertension can develop slowly without symptoms, it can cause serious organ damage. In fact, even slight increases in blood pressure have been known to cause kidney and heart damage. Severe high blood pressure may result in headaches, visual disturbances, nausea and vomiting (hypertensive crisis). This happens when blood pressure rises too rapidly. If untreated, hypertension can damage major organs like the brain, heart, eyes, kidneys or liver.
Many people discover high blood pressure during a routine doctor visit, so it’s imperative that you have regular checkups. Although it may not be possible to pinpoint an exact cause of high blood pressure, several factors contribute: obesity, heavy alcohol use, family history, high salt intake, aging, sedentary lifestyle, stress, low potassium or calcium and/or resistance to insulin.
Contact us if you would like to know more about organ damage and how we can help with prevention and/or treatment.