How to Diagnose Hypertension

Stress is bad enough in and of itself. If one isn't careful, the stress can affect him in adverse physical ways. One physical manifestation of stress is hypertension. There are ways to detect hypertension early before it becomes a larger problem.

Instructions

Know the Types of Hypertension and Definition of Blood Pressure,

• 1

  Understand blood pressure and high blood pressure. Blood pressure is defined by two numbers: the first or top number is systolic and the second or bottom number is diastolic. The systolic number is the blood pressure when the heart is pumping blood. Diastolic is the blood pressure when the heart is at rest. High blood pressure exists when the systolic number is more than 140 and the diastolic number is more than 90.

• 2

  Identify the types of hypertension in order to diagnose it. Primary hypertension is the most common form and often has no identifiable cause. In primary hypertension the systolic number is above 140 and the diastolic number is above 90. Secondary hypertension is caused by another medical or emotional condition. Pre-hypertension is when the systolic number is 120 to 139 and the diastolic number is 80 to 89. "White-coat" hypertension, typically caused by the stress of going to a doctor, is temporary and not a problem.

• 3

  Check the history and symptoms of the potentially hypertensive person.

Check the Medical, Family and Personal History

• 4

  Ask if the person smokes. Smoking can be a factor in hypertension.

• 5

  Ascertain if the person has a history of heart disease in the family. Often hypertension is hereditary.

• 6

  Check the medical history for diabetes. Diabetes and hypertension are sometimes directly linked.

• 7

  Determine if the person is experiencing stressful events in their lives. Stressful situations can increase the risks for hypertension.

Check for Physical Symptoms of Hypertension.

• 8

  Inquire if the potentially hypertensive person have blurred vision.

• 9

  Ask if the person has been having headaches.

• 10

  Ascertain if the person has been getting nosebleeds or spitting up blood.

• 11

  Check to see if there is numbness in the feet and hands. This is an indication of poor circulation.