Physical Symptoms of Hypertension & Anxiety

According to the American Heart Association 1 in 3 Americans have hypertension. A large number of Americans with hypertension are unaware they have it.

Anxiety is a normal human emotion that every person will experience in their life. Anxiety disorders are among the most common mental health illnesses in America. According to the Mental Health America more than 40 million Americans are affected by these illnesses each year.

Hypertension

• Hypertension is uncontrolled blood pressure sometimes called high blood pressure. Hypertension is a risk factor for heart disease and stroke. If left untreated hypertension can lead to permanent kidney damage. In the United States, hypertension is the second leading cause of chronic kidney disease behind diabetes. It is diagnosed by repeated blood pressure readings at or above 140/90 mm Hg (millimeter of mercury). An ideal blood pressure is 120/80 mm Hg.

Prevention/Solution

• Early detection and treatment is the key to preventing long term damage and consequences caused by hypertension. You should regularly monitor your blood pressure and see you doctor is it remain raised. If caught early you can avoid damaging your arteries and organs. Your blood pressure can be controlled with medications and life style changes.

Symptoms of Hypertension

• Hypertension is called a silent killer because there are no symptoms. The only way to diagnose the disease is with elevated blood pressure readings. There are some reports of people feeling dizzy or lightheaded due to their high blood pressure but these symptoms are usually symptoms of some other condition.

Anxiety

• Symptoms of anxiety can be confused with hypertension. When you are anxious you might experience dizziness, nervousness, sweating, hyperventilating, chest pain, palpitations (sensation of an irregular heartbeat), restlessness, dry mouth, muscle tension, nausea, a feeling of panic or cold and sweaty hands. Anxiety is an emotion triggered by stress or uncomfortable situations. When anxious you may have high blood pressure but that does not mean you have hypertension. See your doctor to determine the cause of your symptoms.

Misconceptions

• High cholesterol does not mean high blood pressure. You can have one with out the other. Anxiety symptoms do not mean you have an anxiety disorder. Only your doctor can tell you if what you are feeling is hypertension or anxiety. For both conditions your doctor can work out with you a treatment plan to manage the symptoms and prevent future consequences.