Hypertension, also known as high blood pressure, is a chronic medical condition where the force of blood against the artery walls is too high.

It is one of the most prevalent medical problems worldwide and a leading cause of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. High blood pressure is diagnosed when systolic blood pressure (the top number) is equal to or greater than 140 mm Hg and/or diastolic blood pressure (the bottom number) is equal to or greater than 90 mm Hg.

Hypertension can cause serious damage to your vital organs and vessels, including the brain, heart, kidneys, and eyes. In fact, sustained high blood pressure can lead to stroke, heart attack, heart failure, chronic kidney disease, and vision loss.

Hypertension and Neurological Symptoms

Although hypertension is a circulatory problem, it can also impact the nervous system, causing an array of neurological symptoms. Blood pressure is regulated by the brain through a complex network of blood vessels, nerves, and hormones.

When there is a disturbance in this regulatory system, it can lead to a host of neurological manifestations.

Hypertensive Encephalopathy

Hypertensive encephalopathy is a medical emergency that results from uncontrolled hypertension. It is characterized by brain swelling, headaches, confusion, seizures, and visual disturbances.

Hypertensive encephalopathy is often seen in patients with severe hypertension, and it usually results from a sudden increase in blood pressure.

Hypertension and Stroke

Stroke is another major complication of hypertension. High blood pressure is an important risk factor for stroke, and it increases the likelihood of bleeding or clotting in the blood vessels of the brain.

Hypertension can cause the weakening of the arterial walls, which makes them prone to rupturing. On the other hand, high blood pressure can also contribute to the formation of blood clots, which can obstruct blood flow to the brain.

Hypertension and Dizziness

Hypertension can cause a feeling of dizziness or lightheadedness. When blood pressure is too high, it can cause blood vessels inside the ear to swell.

This, in turn, leads to the disruption of the delicate balance mechanisms in the inner ear, leading to dizziness.

Hypertension and Headaches

Hypertension can cause headaches, often behind the eyes or at the back of the head. These headaches are typically dull and throbbing, and they can last for several hours.

High blood pressure causes severe headaches due to the increased pressure on the blood vessels in the head. In some cases, the headaches can be accompanied by nausea and vomiting.

Hypertension and Tremors

Tremors or shaking is another neurological symptom that can be linked to hypertension. Tremors often affect the hands and feet and may be more noticeable during periods of stress or tension.

High blood pressure has been shown to cause tremors, especially in the elderly population.

Hypertension and Memory Loss

High blood pressure can lead to memory loss and cognitive decline over time. Chronic hypertension damages the blood vessels in the brain, leading to a decreased flow of blood and oxygen to the neurological tissues.

This can result in a decline in cognitive function, including memory, language, and attention span. Hypertension has also been linked to the development of Alzheimer’s disease.

Hypertension and Anxiety

High blood pressure can cause anxiety symptoms in some people. It can induce feelings of fear, worry, and uneasiness, making it difficult for them to concentrate or relax.

Hypertension can trigger the release of certain hormones and chemicals that can affect the nervous system and increase anxiety levels.

Hypertension and Sleep Disorders

Hypertension can disrupt sleep patterns, leading to sleep disorders such as obstructive sleep apnea or insomnia. Sleep apnea is a condition where breathing is interrupted during sleep, causing blood pressure to rise.

Insomnia is a condition where you have difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep, which can increase stress levels and affect your blood pressure levels negatively.

Hypertension and Depression

Depression is a common mental health issue that can be linked to hypertension. High blood pressure can cause stress and anxiety, leading to depression symptoms such as sadness, hopelessness, and loss of interest in activities.

Depression can also worsen hypertension by causing people to neglect healthy lifestyle choices such as exercise or healthy eating.