High Blood Pressure 101

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Symptoms

Often called the “silent killer,” high blood pressure doesn’t have any symptoms and is only discovered when blood pressure is measured. According to the American Heart Association, nearly 30 percent of Americans have high blood pressure, and one-third of those don’t know they have it.

Keep in mind: One high reading doesn’t indicate high blood pressure. Some factors can temporarily elevate blood pressure, including: 

• stress
• caffeine
• exercise
• “white coat syndrome” (doctor’s office anxiety)

However, if you get a high blood pressure reading and you have a family history of high blood pressure or heart disease, are overweight, smoke, or have other risk factors, your doctor will investigate further.