Hypertension-FAQ.com

High Blood Pressure is often referred to as the “silent killer” due to the fact that there are usually no associated symptoms. Even if there are associated symptoms, they are usually vague or non-specific.

If left untreated, these undetected or vague symptoms of high blood pressure may eventually cause organ damage. Most people will only then seek medical advice. i.e. The begin to have symptoms caused by the ensuing organ damage.
Some symptoms that may be associated with high blood pressure are:

Breathlessness
Sleepiness
Confusion
Nosebleeds
Headaches
Dizziness
Nausea
Blurred Vision

It must be noted that there are many medical conditions that cause the above symptoms so they are not necessarily a sure sign of hypertension (high blood pressure).
Symptoms of organ damage caused by chronic high blood pressure may include:

Heart failure
Heart attack
Loss of vision
Aneurysms
Stroke or “mini stroke” (transient ischemic attack)

Kidney failure

It must be noted that the symptoms of high blood pressure may go undetected for a number of years but all the while causing damage to the major organs.
Your blood pressure will normally be taken by your Doctor on your normal check-ups. These should be done at least every 2 years from the age of 20.
If you have increased blood pressure, your doctor may request you have your blood pressure taken on a more regular basis.
If you have any of the above symptoms, it would be prudent to see your GP. If any of your symptoms are severe, chest pain, shortness of breath, loss of vision, severe headache, you should present to your doctor or emergency department immediately.

There are many treatments to reduce and control high blood pressure which will of course reduce the chances of developing organ damage.
These treatments include medications and lifestyle changes.
There are many medications used in the reduction of high blood pressure. Their uses and description are beyond the scope of this article.
Lifestyle changes will include losing weight, exercise, quitting smoking and eating healthier.
These medications and/or lifestyle changes will reduce hypertension in most cases.
You may have one symptom of high blood pressure or many (probably none) so it is important to have you blood pressure take regularly especially if you have a family history of it.