Blood pressure of 180 but no discomfort—why is this happening, and what should I do?
Generally, a blood pressure reading of 180 without experiencing discomfort might be caused by measurement errors, individual differences, hereditary hypertension, renal artery stenosis, pheochromocytoma, and other reasons. It is recommended to seek medical attention promptly, identify the cause, and follow medical advice for treatment. Details are as follows:
1. Measurement Error: Vigorous exercise, emotional excitement, or improper measurement techniques can lead to errors in blood pressure readings. Therefore, upon obtaining a reading of 180 mmHg, it is recommended to calm down, rest for a while, and then retake the measurement to ensure accuracy.
2. Individual Differences: Some individuals may have a higher tolerance for hypertension. Even when blood pressure rises to high levels, they may not immediately experience discomfort. However, this does not mean hypertension is not causing bodily harm. Patients should seek timely medical attention, identify the cause, and undergo treatment.
3. Hereditary Hypertension: Hypertension has a certain degree of familial clustering. If there is a family history of hypertension, the individual's risk of developing hypertension increases. Patients with hereditary hypertension may not exhibit obvious discomfort symptoms when their blood pressure rises, but they need to take antihypertensive medications such as Irbesartan tablets, Nifedipine tablets, and Captopril tablets under a doctor's guidance.
4. Renal Artery Stenosis: Renal artery stenosis often occurs secondary to kidney ischemia and can stimulate renin secretion, leading to peripheral vasoconstriction and subsequently causing hypertension. Long-term renal artery stenosis may damage kidney function, potentially leading to renal failure. Patients need to take medications such as Aspirin enteric-coated capsules, Clopidogrel bisulfate tablets, Methotrexate tablets, and others under a doctor's guidance.
5. Pheochromocytoma: A tumor arising from chromaffin tissue that can episodically or continuously secrete large amounts of catecholamines, causing persistent or episodic hypertension and functional and metabolic disturbances in multiple organs. When pheochromocytoma patients have mild conditions or are not very sensitive, they may not exhibit obvious discomfort symptoms. Patients need to choose surgical treatments such as tumor enucleation, partial adrenalectomy, or chromaffin body embolization under a doctor's guidance, followed by chemotherapy after surgery.
Patients should maintain a light diet in daily life and avoid consuming spicy and irritating foods. They can also engage in appropriate physical activities, such as jogging, practicing Tai Chi, or doing yoga.