When High Blood Pressure Becomes an Emergency: A Guide for Patients
What is a High Blood Pressure Emergency? Hypertensive Emergency A high blood pressure emergency is a serious condition that occurs when blood pressure becomes dangerously high, leading to potential damage in one or more organs. If it is not treated immediately, it can lead to life-threatening complications. The following organs could be affected: Eyes : May cause bleeding at the back of the eye or swelling of the nerve which connects the eye to the brain. Brain : Swelling or bleeding in the brain, and even a stroke (brain damage due to lack of blood flow). Kidneys : Damage to the kidneys which may stop functioning properly. Heart : It can lead to heart attacks, heart failure, or damage to major blood vessels. When is a High Blood Pressure an Emergency? Blood pressure is expressed using two numbers. If someone says your blood pressure is "140 over 90," it means the pressure when your heart beats (systolic) is 140, and the pre...