Hypertensive crisis
What is Hypertensive Crisis?
Hypertensive crisis is a term used to describe a sudden and severe increase in blood pressure. It can cause life-threatening cardiovascular problems like heart attack, stroke, and organ damage. Hypertensive crisis is more common among people over the age of 60 and those with underlying conditions like diabetes and chronic kidney disease.
Symptoms of Hypertensive Crisis
Signs of hypertensive crisis can range from mild to severe and include the following:
- Headaches
- Nausea and vomiting
- Blurred vision
- Shortness of breath
- Chest pain
Diagnosing Hypertensive Crisis
If your doctor suspects that you are experiencing a hypertensive crisis, they will perform tests to confirm a diagnosis. These tests may include:
- Blood pressure measurements
- Complete blood count (CBC)
- Serum electrolytes
- Clinical urinalysis
- Cardiac enzymes
- EKG (electrocardiogram)
- Chest X-ray
Treatment for Hypertensive Crisis
The recommended treatment for hypertensive crisis depends on the severity of your condition and may include:
- Medications (such as beta blockers, ACE inhibitors, and calcium channel blockers) to lower your blood pressure
- Fluid therapy to reduce blood volume
- Oxygen therapy
- Lifestyle changes such as eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, quitting smoking, and managing stress
Preventing Hypertensive Crisis
The best way to prevent hypertensive crisis is to make lifestyle changes and manage your chronic medical conditions. You should:
- Monitor your blood pressure regularly to ensure it is within the target range
- Take all medications prescribed by your doctor as directed
- Adopt a heart-healthy diet rich in vegetables, fruits, and whole grains
- Exercise regularly and reduce stress
- Limit or avoid cigarettes and alcohol
