High Blood Pressure Symptoms & Diagnosis

Symptoms

High blood pressure usually does not cause symptoms. But, the condition can still damage your organs and tissues.

Occasionally, if blood pressure reaches extreme levels, you may have the following:

Headache
Blurry or double vision
Abdominal pain
Chest pain
Shortness of breath
Dizziness

Diagnosis

High blood pressure is often diagnosed during a doctor's visit. Blood pressure is measured using an arm cuff and a special device. If your reading is high, you'll come back for repeat checks. If you have two or more visits with readings over 140/90 mmHG, you will be diagnosed with high blood pressure.

Your doctor will order tests to make sure your high blood pressure is not caused by another condition. You will also be tested to see if the high blood pressure has cause any problems.

Tests include:

Blood tests
Urine tests
Chest x-rays —a test that uses radiation to take a picture of structures inside the body
Electrocardiogram (ECG, EKG) —a test that records the heart's activity by measuring electrical currents through the heart muscle

Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Copyright © 2026 EBSCO Publishing All rights reserved.