Hypertension in Men
High blood pressure often has no symptoms. It still causes harm over time. It can raise the risk of heart disease, stroke, kidney disease, and erectile dysfunction.
Symptoms
Most men have no symptoms. Headaches and dizziness are not reliable indicators of elevated blood pressure.
Causes and risk
Age, family history, sodium intake, obesity, stress, poor sleep, tobacco, alcohol, and inactivity all raise risk.
How it is evaluated
Diagnosis requires repeated blood pressure readings in office and at home. Labs check kidney function, glucose, lipids, and other markers.
Treatment
Treatment includes lifestyle change and medication when needed. Target blood pressure is typically below 130/80 mm Hg.
When to seek care
Seek urgent care for chest pain, shortness of breath, severe headache with vision changes, or weakness.