High blood pressure, or hypertension, is one of the most common health conditions worldwide, yet millions remain unaware they have it. Doctors often call it a "silent killer" because it can quietly damage the body for years without causing obvious symptoms.

By the time warning signs appear, serious complications such as stroke, heart disease, or kidney damage may have already developed. According to Dr. Dhruv Zutshi, Additional Director, Neurology, Fortis Hospital Vasant Kunj, hypertension usually progresses silently because the body gradually adapts to rising blood pressure levels.

"High blood pressure is often described as a 'silent disease' because it typically develops and progresses without noticeable symptoms in its early stages," says Dr Dhruv Zutshi.

Why High Blood Pressure Often Goes UnnoticedUnlike illnesses that trigger pain or discomfort immediately, hypertension does not directly stimulate pain receptors.

"The arteries and internal organs affected by increased pressure lack sensory mechanisms that would alert a person to the problem," explains Dr Zutshi. As a result, many people can live with dangerously high blood pressure for years without realising it.

Source:Ndtv