Normal BP but frequent headaches? Cardiologist explains hidden hypertension warning signs and why regular monitoring is key to preventing heart disease

Masked hypertension is often described as the silent opposite of “white coat hypertension.” In white coat hypertension, blood pressure rises at the doctor’s clinic due to anxiety. In masked hypertension, the opposite occurs: the reading appears normal in the clinic but rises during everyday life.

According to Dr Geetesh Govil, Consultant, Cardiology, Manipal Hospital, Ghaziabad, this condition can quietly damage the body if ignored, “Many people think that if their blood pressure tests appear normal during a routine check-up, they are safe from hypertension-related problems. However, doctors warn that some people may experience symptoms linked to fluctuating or hidden high blood pressure, for which the most commonly ignored signs is unexplained headaches. This is ‘masked hypertension’ which causes painful headaches even when a test shows normal. If blood pressure rises and falls throughout the day, the body is not healthy and is hypertensive. Ignoring these shifts leads to permanent internal damage.”

Several everyday factors may trigger these hidden fluctuations. High stress levels, poor sleep, excess salt intake, obesity, smoking, and sedentary habits can all contribute. Even people who appear healthy may develop these changes slowly over time.