Hypertension: When to Call Your Doctor

Hypertension symptoms – often there aren’t any. Hypertension is often called the "silent" disease because it may have no noticeable symptoms. If undetected and untreated, hypertension can cause heart disease (including congestive heart failure and heart attack), stroke, and kidney disease. That's why it is important to have regular physical examinations to make sure your blood pressure is within the normal range. This is especially important if your blood pressure has ever been high, if you have a family history of hypertension, or if you are gaining weight.

If you are being treated for hypertension, your doctor can answer any questions or concerns you may have during your regular visits. However, there may be situations that warrant a call to your doctor. For example:

• If you aren't responding to the treatment your doctor prescribed and your blood pressure is still high.
• If you have certain symptoms, including fatigue, nausea, shortness of breath, lightheadedness, headache, excessive sweating, problems with your vision, or confusion. These may be serious and should warrant prompt medical attention. They could be from uncontrolled hypertension or from medication side effects.

Remember, your doctor is there to help you. If you have any concerns about your condition, don't hesitate to call your doctor.

Reviewed by the doctors at The Cleveland Clinic Heart Center.