What could be a possible symptom of chronic hypertension?

Chronic hypertension, also known as high blood pressure, can lead to several symptoms, one of which is epistaxis, or nosebleeds. This occurs because prolonged elevated blood pressure can damage the delicate blood vessels in the nasal passages. As these blood vessels become weakened, even minor strain or changes in pressure can result in bleeding.

While headaches and shortness of breath can sometimes be associated with hypertension, they are not as directly indicative of chronic hypertension as epistaxis. Headaches may occur in cases of severe hypertension but are not specific; they can arise from various other health issues as well. Shortness of breath can result from various cardiovascular or respiratory conditions, making it a less specific symptom of chronic hypertension. Allergic reactions also are unrelated to hypertension and generally involve an immune response rather than vascular issues.

Thus, epistaxis is a key symptom associated with long-standing hypertension due to its physiological effects on blood vessels, making it a clear and relevant answer in this context.