Hypertensive crisis

Hypertensive Crisis

Hypertensive crisis (/haɪˌpɜːrtɛnˈsɪv/ /ˈkraɪsɪs/) is a severe increase in blood pressure that can lead to a stroke. Extremely high blood pressure — a top number (systolic pressure) of 180 millimeters of mercury (mm Hg) or higher or a bottom number (diastolic pressure) of 120 mm Hg or higher — can damage blood vessels. The blood vessels become inflamed and may leak fluid or blood. As a result, the heart may not be able to pump blood effectively.

Etymology

The term "hypertensive" is derived from the word "hypertension", which is a medical term for high blood pressure. The word "crisis" is used to describe a sudden, intense, or dangerous situation requiring immediate action.

Types of Hypertensive Crisis

There are two types of hypertensive crises — both require immediate medical attention. These are Hypertensive Urgency and Hypertensive Emergency.

Hypertensive Urgency

In a hypertensive urgency, blood pressure is extremely high, but there's no evidence of organ damage.

Hypertensive Emergency

In a hypertensive emergency, blood pressure is extremely high and has caused damage to organs. An emergency hypertensive crisis can be associated with life-threatening complications.

Related Terms

• Hypertension
• Blood Pressure
• Stroke
• Hypertensive Urgency
• Hypertensive Emergency

See Also

• Cardiovascular disease
• Heart attack
• Kidney disease

External links

• Medical encyclopedia article on Hypertensive crisis
• Wikipedia's article - Hypertensive crisis

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