High blood pressure: which doctor should I see?
High blood pressure often causes no complaints at all and is found by chance when it is measured. Over time, however, it strains the heart, the brain, the kidneys and the eyes. Here you will learn what may be behind it, when it is urgent and which specialist to see.
Book a specialistWhen it is urgent
- Very high blood pressure with a severe headache, nausea, confusion, marked drowsiness or a seizure.
- High blood pressure with chest pain or shortness of breath.
- Sudden weakness or numbness on one side of the body, a drooping face or slurred speech.
- A sudden change in your vision.
- You are pregnant or have recently given birth and have a severe headache, vision problems, pain below the ribs or sudden swelling of the face, hands or feet.
With these signs, seek emergency help — call 112 or go to the nearest emergency department.
Call 112What it may mean
- Lifestyle — a lot of salt, little exercise, excess weight, alcohol and tobacco.
- Family history — high blood pressure often runs in families.
- Age — blood vessels become stiffer over the years.
- Stress and lack of sleep.
- Other conditions — for example of the kidneys or the thyroid — or some medicines.
Which specialist
How to prepare for the visit
Measure your blood pressure at home for several days in a row, morning and evening, and write down the readings. Bring the record, your monitor and a list of the medicines you take, as well as earlier test results.
Frequently asked questions
How do I measure my blood pressure correctly at home?
Sit quietly for a few minutes with your arm at heart level, and do not smoke or drink coffee before measuring. The doctor will show you how.
Can high blood pressure go away without medicines?
Lifestyle changes sometimes help a lot. Whether treatment is needed is the doctor's decision.
When should I see a cardiologist?
When your readings are often high, when treatment does not help, or with palpitations and shortness of breath.
This information does not replace a visit to a doctor.