The causes of essential hypertension are not well defined. High blood pressure, if unrecognized or untreated, will eventually lead to the development of heart problems, kidney damage, or a stroke. Often secondary hypertension begins abruptly and the symptoms are severe from the onset. However, most of the time high blood pressure doesn't have obvious symptoms. The doctor will ask about your medical history and do a physical exam.
Testing is likely to include blood work, x- rays, and an electrocardiogram.
Unless your blood pressure is very high, your doctor may first want to verify that you have high blood pressure. He or she may ask you to return for blood pressure checks on three different days when you are relaxed and are not in a hurry. Your blood pressure may need to be checked when you have not had alcohol or certain medications for several days. The medical history is an important part of diagnosis. Your doctor will ask you about your personal history of high blood pressure.