Hypertensive Crisis

Hypertensive crisis is an umbrella term for hypertensive emergencies and hypertensive urgencies. Both conditions occur when blood pressure is extremely high, and there is a possibility of organ damage.

A hypertensive urgency occurs when the blood pressure spikes, to a reading above 180/110 mm Hg. However there is no damage to any organs, and the blood pressure can be brought down using blood pressure medication.

In contrast, a hypertensive emergency occurs when the blood pressure is even higher, and there is danger of organ damage. The blood vessels can become inflamed, causing leakage of fluid or blood. As a result, the heart is unable to pump blood effectively and there are risks of organ damage. In such a situation, the patient must be immediately admitted to an intensive care unit in a hospital.

Sources:

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/high-blood-pressure/expert-answers/hypertensive-crisis/faq-20058491

https://www.webmd.com/hypertension-high-blood-pressure/guide/hypertensive-crisis

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