Itowngirl,

Thanks for your posted question.  In general, the majority of people with high blood pressure have no symptoms of their elevated reading.  This is the reason that High Blood Pressure (Hypertension) is known as the silent killer.

However, some patients have symptoms of their Hypertension, and these patients usually have very high readings and need an evaluation by their physician.  These symptoms include: visual changes; headaches; dizziness; nose bleeds; and, in severe cases, altered mental status.

In all situations, including yours, you must be evaluated by your physician to confirm your suspicions.  In addition to taking your pressure several times, possibly in different positions, he will obtain a complete history and perform a physical examination.  At this point, he/she will determine whether you have high blood pressure, or another problem that may be causing your symptoms.  He might then request further testing that may include blood work and even some imaging studies (X-ray, scans, etc), but again, only your doctor can make these decisions after seeing and examining you.

You should also know that many patients report to their doctors for an evaluation with the chief complaint "I have high blood pressure," only to find that their pressure it totally normal.  So, until seen by a doctor, it's just a guessing game.

Best wishes.

Martin Cane, M.D.