High Blood Pressure (Hypertension): Risks, Symptoms, and Emergency Warning Signs
High blood pressure (hypertension) is a common but often silent medical condition affecting millions of Canadians. Many individuals live with high blood pressure for years without noticeable symptoms. However, the absence of symptoms does not mean the condition is harmless.
Uncontrolled high blood pressure damages blood vessels over time and significantly increases the risk of heart attack, stroke, kidney failure, and other cardiovascular emergencies. For this reason, routine blood pressure checks and early first aid awareness are critical.
Types of High Blood Pressure
Hypertension is a chronic condition and generally falls into two categories:
Primary (Essential) Hypertension
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Develops gradually over time
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Often linked to genetics, aging, diet, and lifestyle factors
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Most common form in Canadians
Secondary Hypertension
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Caused by another medical condition (kidney disease, hormonal disorders, medications)
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May improve once the underlying cause is treated
Because symptoms are usually absent, blood pressure testing is the only reliable way to detect hypertension.
Uncommon Symptoms of High Blood Pressure
Although rare, some individuals with long-standing hypertension may experience:
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Dizziness or lightheadedness
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Dull or persistent headaches
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Frequent nosebleeds
⚠️ These symptoms usually indicate advanced or poorly controlled hypertension.
Hypertensive Crisis: A Medical Emergency
A hypertensive crisis occurs when blood pressure rises to 180 mmHg systolic or higher, or 110 mmHg diastolic or higher.
If a reading is this high:
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Wait a few minutes
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Recheck the blood pressure
If the second reading remains elevated, do not wait — emergency care is required.
Emergency Warning Signs May Include:
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Severe headache
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Shortness of breath
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Nosebleed
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Intense anxiety or confusion
Left untreated, hypertensive crisis can result in:
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Stroke or brain bleeding
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Fluid buildup in the lungs
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Seizures (including pregnancy-related eclampsia)
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Heart attack or tearing of a major artery
Knowing how to recognize these warning signs is an important part of first aid and emergency response training in Canada.
Treatment and Long-Term Management
High blood pressure is manageable through a combination of lifestyle changes and medications. A healthcare provider will determine the best approach.
Lifestyle & Dietary Changes
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Reduce salt and sodium intake
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Eat potassium-rich foods
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Maintain a healthy weight
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Increase physical activity
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Manage stress
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Avoid smoking
Medications (When Required)
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Diuretics – reduce excess sodium and fluid
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Beta-blockers – slow the heart rate
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ACE inhibitors – relax blood vessels
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Calcium channel blockers – reduce vessel constriction
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Central-acting agents – lower nerve signals that increase blood pressure
Why This Matters for First Aid in Canada
High blood pressure is a leading contributor to medical emergencies encountered at home, work, and in public spaces. Recognizing hypertensive crisis symptoms and knowing when to call emergency services is a core skill taught in Canadian first aid, CPR, and workplace safety courses.
Important Disclaimer
Educational Use Only
This article is intended for health education and first aid awareness in Canada. It does not replace medical diagnosis or treatment. Anyone experiencing symptoms of hypertensive crisis should seek immediate emergency medical care.