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  • High blood pressure is a medical condition known as hypertension. People with hypertension may go years without experiencing negative effects, according to the Mayo Clinic; however, prolonged high blood pressure is a risk factor in many serious conditions.

    Symptoms

    When high blood pressure does lead to symptoms, they may include chest pain, confusion, noise or buzzing in the ears, irregular heartbeat, bleeding nose, tiredness and changes in vision; Medline Plus recommends contacting a doctor if these symptoms develop.

    Heart and Arteries

    High blood pressure can cause the arteries to become hard and thick (a condition called atherosclerosis), which is itself a risk factor for heart attack and stroke. It can also lead to bulging and possible rupture of blood vessels (aneurysm) and heart failure, according to the Mayo Clinic.

    Brain

    Hypertension can either reduce blood flow to the brain or cause a stroke and may also interfere with thinking, memory and learning, according to the Mayo Clinic.

    Other Organs

    High blood pressure can damage the arteries in the eyes and kidneys. This can lead to kidney damage and the loss of vision, according to the Mayo Clinic.

    Metabolic Syndrome

    High blood pressure is a component of metabolic syndrome. according to the Mayo Clinic, this has wide-reaching effects like a larger waist, high triglycerides (the type of fat found in the blood), low "good" cholesterol and high insulin levels. The features of metabolic syndrome lead to a higher risk of diabetes, heart disease and stroke.

    Source:

    Mayo Clinic: High Blood Pressure Definition

    Medline Plus: Hypertension

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