High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, is often called the “silent killer” because it usually has no symptoms, yet it significantly increases the risk of heart disease, stroke, kidney disease, and other serious health conditions. Nearly half of U.S. adults have high blood pressure, and many don’t know it.

The good news? High blood pressure is manageable, and often preventable, with early detection and proper care.

Blood pressure measures the force of blood pushing against the walls of your arteries. It’s recorded as two numbers:

• Systolic pressure (top number): pressure when the heart beats
• Diastolic pressure (bottom number): pressure when the heart rests

Blood Pressure Categories:

• Normal: Less than 120/80 mm Hg
• Elevated: 120–129 / less than 80
• High Blood Pressure (Stage 1): 130–139 / 80–89
• High Blood Pressure (Stage 2): 140/90 or higher

Your healthcare provider can help determine what these numbers mean for you.

When left untreated, high blood pressure can damage blood vessels and vital organs over time. It increases the risk of:

• Heart attack and heart failure
• Stroke
• Kidney disease
• Vision loss
• Cognitive decline and dementia

Because symptoms are often absent, regular blood pressure checks are essential.

Anyone can develop high blood pressure, but risk increases if you:

• Have a family history of hypertension
• Are over age 40
• Are overweight or physically inactive
• Eat a diet high in sodium
• Smoke or drink alcohol excessively
• Have diabetes, kidney disease, or sleep apnea
• Experience chronic stress

Pregnant individuals and young adults can also develop high blood pressure, making screening important at all ages.

Most people with high blood pressure feel completely normal. In rare cases, very high readings may cause:

• Headaches
• Shortness of breath
• Chest pain
• Dizziness or vision changes

These symptoms require immediate medical attention.

You should talk to your provider if:

• Your readings are consistently above 120/80
• You have risk factors for high blood pressure
• You are pregnant or planning pregnancy
• You have symptoms such as chest pain or severe headaches

Early care can prevent long-term complications.