High blood pressure is a common condition that affects more than 25 percent of all adults in the UK.
The condition, which is also known as hypertension, puts extra stress on blood vessels and vital organs, express.co.uk wrote.
High blood pressure is often known as ‘the silent killer’ as it’s not always possible to know if you’re at risk.
But you could be at risk of a deadly hypertensive crisis if your severe headache is accompanied by blurred vision, it’s been revealed.
A hypertensive crisis is a fast rise in blood pressure that can lead to a stroke, according to the Mayo Clinic.
Anything over 180/120mmHg can immediately damage blood vessels, and they may begin to leak blood.
It could also causes damage to your vital organs, and it may be life-threatening, it said.
If you have high blood pressure, and you suddenly develop a severe headache, confusion and blurred vision, you should seek immediate medical attention.
“In an emergency hypertensive crisis, your blood pressure is extremely high and has caused damage to your organs,” said the Mayo Clinic.
“An emergency hypertensive crisis can be associated with life-threatening complications.
“Signs and symptoms of a hypertensive crisis that may be life-threatening may include severe headache, accompanied by confusion and blurred vision.
“If you experience a severe increase in your blood pressure, seek immediate medical attention.
“Treatment for hypertensive crisis may include hospitalization for treatment with oral or intravenous medications.”
You could also be at risk of a hypertensive crisis if you have severe chest pain, or severe anxiety.
Other symptoms include nausea, vomiting, shortness of breath, having seizures, or being unresponsive.
Having high blood pressure increases the risk of some deadly complications, including strokes and heart attacks.
But the only way of knowing if you have hypertension is to have your blood pressure checked.
Symptoms only develop if you have extremely high blood pressure, said Bupa UK.
Speak to a doctor or pharmacist to have your blood pressure checked.
All adults over 40 years old should check their blood pressure at least every five years.
