A hypertensive emergency is a type of hypertensive crisis that occurs with a sudden, extremely high blood pressure spike. This condition is considered a medical emergency and requires immediate treatment as it can be fatal. This type of hypertension is unpredictable and can occur at any time. Blood pressure can reach 180/120 mmHg or even higher.
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This hypertensive crisis can also cause organ damage and various complications. Hypertensive emergency (HT) is also defined as a severe increase in blood pressure (BP) (>180/120 mm Hg) accompanied by evidence of new or worsening target organ damage (TOD). Therefore, rapid treatment is necessary to avoid the risk of organ damage and complications.
Hypertension Emergency Symptoms You Need to Know
People with this type of hypertensive emergency usually don't notice any specific symptoms. This is because it appears suddenly, but this is not the case if you already have organ damage.
Also Read: Maintain Your Health: 11 Causes of Hypertension and How to Prevent It
Symptoms that are usually felt when there is organ damage are:
- A sudden headache that occurs before a spike in blood pressure.
- Vision disturbances, usually blurry vision.
- Chest pain that can lead to shortness of breath.
- Nausea, which can often lead to vomiting.
- Swelling or fluid buildup in certain body tissues.
- Numbness or weakness in the limbs.
- Changes in mental state, such as sudden confusion.
- Decreased level of consciousness.
- Seizures.
- Difficulty speaking.
- Back pain.
If someone around you is experiencing a hypertensive emergency, you can:
- Administering oral antihypertensive medications to control blood pressure, both in the treatment room and at home, once blood pressure is stable.
- Using vital aids if the patient has severe organ damage, such as ventilators for patients with respiratory failure.
Causes of Hypertensive Emergency
One of the main causes of this type of hypertensive crisis is the patient's negligence in taking their medication. Hypertension is a disease that requires lifelong control. If patients fail to take their medication regularly, their condition will worsen. This can lead to sudden, uncontrolled increases in blood pressure.
Several factors can also contribute to a hypertensive emergency, including:
- Consuming sympathomimetic drugs, or medications that temporarily increase blood pressure, such as decongestants.
- Suffering from central nervous system disorders that can trigger high blood pressure, including intracranial hemorrhage or stroke.
- Fluid buildup in the lungs, impairing their function.
- Damage to the inner lining of the aorta, leading to impaired blood circulation.
Risk of Organ Damage Due to Hypertensive Emergency
As discussed, this disease causes organ damage. The following organs are at risk of damage when you suffer from a high blood pressure emergency:
- Brain damage
- Heart
- Kidneys
Damage to these organs can trigger fatal and serious complications such as pulmonary edema, eclampsia, angina, stroke, eye damage, kidney failure, aortic dissection, and heart failure.
When to See a Doctor?
If you experience the symptoms mentioned above, you should immediately see a doctor and go to emergency services for prompt treatment. Prompt treatment will reduce the risk of death.
Hypertension Emergency Diagnosis Procedure
The doctor will diagnose this condition by measuring your blood pressure several times. If the reading is 180/120 mmHg or higher, you need immediate medical attention.
In addition to blood pressure measurements, the doctor will also perform an electrocardiogram (ECG), urinalysis, CT scan, and blood tests.
Treatment Steps Usually Taken by Doctors
You will receive intensive and close care if diagnosed with emergency high blood pressure. The following treatment steps will be taken by the doctor:
- Physical monitoring to evaluate your overall condition.
- Administering antihypertensive medication, either by injection or IV.
- If severe organ damage occurs, medical assistance will be provided.
Lifestyle and Diet Changes
Lifestyle and dietary changes are essential in addition to medical treatment. This aims to prevent future recurrence of the disease. You should start exercising regularly and control your diet, such as reducing your intake of salt and high-cholesterol foods.
Also Read: Check Your Heart Health with CT Calcium Score at Bunda Heart Center
If you experience symptoms of this condition, you should immediately consult a medical unit specializing in heart and blood vessels, such as Bunda Hospital Jakarta. Also, find out the doctor's schedule at Bunda Group Hospital units near you and reserve your appointment here. Hypertensive emergencies require prompt and safe treatment. If you have other health needs, visit our information page to find out which healthcare services are best suited to your needs.
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