Investigations

Investigations are required to diagnose hypertension (especially secondary) and identify complications.

Measurement of blood pressure : Diagnosis of a person with high blood pressure is made on the basis of two or more readings, taken on several occasions. A consistent blood pressure reading of 140/90 mm Hg or higher is considered high blood pressure.
Urine examination for blood, protein and glucose.
Blood examination for urea, cholesterol, creatinine and electrolyte levels.
Electrocardiography (ECG) to detect left ventricular hypertrophy (enlargement of heart) or coronary artery disease.
Chest X-ray to detect heart enlargement (cardiomegaly), coarctation (narrowing) of aorta.
Renal angiography to confirm presence of renal artery stenosis (narrowing).
Kidney function test to assess kidney function.
Echocardiogram to rule out heart disease.
Renal ultrasound to detect possible renal disease.