Understanding High Blood Pressure
High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, is a common condition where the force of blood against the artery walls is too high. According to the American Heart Association, normal blood pressure is below 120/80 mm Hg. Hypertension is diagnosed when blood pressure readings consistently exceed 130/80 mm Hg.
Blood Pressure Categories
| Category | Systolic | Diastolic |
|---|---|---|
| Normal | Less than 120 | Less than 80 |
| Elevated | 120-129 | Less than 80 |
| Stage 1 Hypertension | 130-139 | 80-89 |
| Stage 2 Hypertension | 140 or higher | 90 or higher |
| Hypertensive Crisis | Higher than 180 | Higher than 120 |
When to Seek Emergency Care
1. Hypertensive Crisis
A hypertensive crisis occurs when blood pressure readings reach 180/120 mm Hg or higher. Symptoms may include:
- Severe headache
- Shortness of breath
- Nosebleeds
- Severe anxiety
- Confusion or altered mental state
- Vision problems
- Seizures
- Weakness or numbness on one side of the body
If you experience these symptoms, seek emergency care immediately. The Mayo Clinic provides detailed information on hypertensive crises.
2. Other Emergency Situations
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:
- Chest pain or discomfort
- Difficulty breathing
- Severe headache or vision changes
- Nausea and vomiting
- Dizziness or fainting
Risk Factors to Consider
Several factors can increase your risk of complications:
- Age (over 65)
- Existing heart conditions
- Diabetes
- Kidney disease
- Pregnancy
- History of stroke
Managing High Blood Pressure
To prevent emergencies and maintain healthy blood pressure:
- Take medications as prescribed
- Monitor blood pressure regularly
- Follow a heart-healthy diet, such as the DASH diet
- Reduce sodium intake
- Exercise regularly
- Maintain a healthy weight
- Manage stress effectively
Home Blood Pressure Monitoring
Proper home monitoring can help identify concerning trends:
- Use a validated device
- Take readings at the same time daily
- Sit quietly for 5 minutes before measuring
- Take multiple readings and record results
Important Note: When in doubt about whether your situation is an emergency, it's better to err on the side of caution and seek immediate medical attention.
After the ER Visit
If you've experienced a hypertensive emergency:
- Follow up with your primary care physician
- Review and adjust medications as needed
- Identify triggers that may have contributed
- Create an action plan for future episodes
- Consider wearing a medical alert bracelet
For more information about blood pressure management, visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website.