Daijiworld Media Network – New Delhi
New Delhi, May 20: It’s easy to assume that if something is seriously wrong inside the body, we’ll feel it through pain, discomfort, or some sign. But high blood pressure, or hypertension, is an exception. Often called the ‘silent killer,’ it creeps up quietly, damaging vital organs without a single symptom, and sometimes reveals itself only during life-threatening events like a stroke or brain hemorrhage.
Dr Priyanka Sehrawat, neurologist at AIIMS Delhi, warns that high blood pressure doesn’t always show early signs. “It doesn’t always cross 140/90 with loud warning bells,” she says. “Many patients only realise something is wrong when they’re in the emergency room.” That’s what makes it dangerous it doesn’t follow predictable patterns.
No symptoms, just sudden damage
There’s a widespread belief that high blood pressure always causes headaches, dizziness, or nosebleeds. But in reality, these symptoms are not guaranteed. “Every patient is different,” Dr Sehrawat explains. “Some may feel uneasy at minor spikes. Others might have dangerously high readings and feel perfectly normal.”
Internally, the pressure damages the walls of blood vessels — especially the delicate ones in the brain. Over time, these vessels can rupture, causing a hemorrhagic stroke, or get blocked, leading to an ischemic stroke. In both cases, there’s often no forewarning.
The first sign may be the last
For many, the first sign of high BP is not a symptom — it’s a complication. Sudden blurred vision, slurred speech, or collapse may be the first indication that blood pressure has been dangerously high for a long time. By then, the damage may already be severe.
Prevention is simple, not expensive
Dr Sehrawat stresses that prevention doesn’t require expensive medicines or major lifestyle changes. “Small, consistent steps can keep BP under control,” she advises. Her key recommendations include:
- Regular BP monitoring — even at home.
- Low salt intake — cutting down in daily meals.
- Daily physical activity — even a 30-minute brisk walk is enough.
- Weight management — especially targeting belly fat.
- Avoiding smoking and alcohol.
These simple measures help the body manage pressure both physical and emotional and could prevent long-term complications.
Awareness is the first step
This isn’t meant to scare, but to raise awareness. Waiting for symptoms might mean waiting too long. As Dr Sehrawat reminds, “Blood pressure behaves differently in everyone. The only way to stay ahead of it is to monitor it regardless of age or symptoms.”
With silent conditions like hypertension, early attention can be lifesaving.