When To Call 911 About High Blood Pressure
Quick Facts
- If you are not pregnant, severe hypertension is when blood pressure is greater than 180/120 without symptoms of organ damage.
A hypertensive crisis is when blood pressure rises quickly and severely with readings of 180/120 mm Hg or greater.
Blood pressure in this range can result in:
- Stroke
- Loss of consciousness
- Memory loss
- Heart attack
- Damage to the eyes and kidneys
- Loss of kidney function
- Aortic dissection
- Unstable angina (chest pain)
- Pulmonary edema (fluid backup in the lungs)
- Eclampsia
What to look for when blood pressure gets too high
There are two types of high blood pressure crises. Both need attention right away. It is important for a health care professional to decide the steps for treatment.
Severe Hypertension
If your blood pressure is 180/120 or greater:
- Wait at least 1 minute
- Take your blood pressure again
If the second reading is just as high, check for these symptoms:
- Chest pain
- Shortness of breath
- Back pain
- Numbness
- Weakness
- Change in vision
- Difficulty speaking
If you do not have any of these symptoms or any other new and concerning symptoms, you likely have severe hypertension. This usually does not need hospitalization, but you should contact your health care professional as soon as possible. Your health care professional may adjust your medications.
Hypertensive Emergency
Call 911 if your blood pressure is 180/120 or higher and you are experiencing symptoms that may include:
- Chest pain
- Shortness of breath
- Back pain
- Numbness
- Weakness
- Change in vision
- Difficulty speaking
This is a medical emergency. Do not wait to see whether your blood pressure comes down on its own. Call 911.
Be prepared
If you have been diagnosed with high blood pressure, track your blood pressure readings and medications. These records can provide valuable information to the medical team in an emergency.
