When is High Blood Pressure and Hypertension an Emergency? 24-Hour ER
High blood pressure increases the risk of heart disease and stroke, two leading causes of death for Americans. Tens of millions of adults in the United States have high blood pressure, and many do not have it under control because of rare physical symptoms. That is why it is also known as the silent killer. (CDC)
In the United States, critical findings by the recognized government bodies (Million Hearts) indicate that:
- Nearly 1 out of 2 adults have hypertension (108 million).
- Most adults with hypertension do not have their hypertension under control (82 million).
- Most adults with hypertension are recommended prescription medication with lifestyle modifications (87 million).
We must share with you to learn about what high blood pressure is and when you may be having a life-threatening blood pressure complication.
What is high blood pressure/ hypertensive crisis?
A hypertensive crisis is when the blood pressure increases, or spikes, drastically. This is considered a crisis because it could damage organs and blood vessels and lead to a stroke.
What causes spikes in blood pressure?
Many different things could trigger a hypertensive crisis. Some of the more common catalysts are: missing a blood pressure medication dosage, heart attack, stroke, kidney failure, or artery rupture. You can tell from this list that some issues will be much more critical as far as organ damage, so it is imperative to get to the ER for help.
Are there other symptoms to watch out for, along with a high blood pressure reading?
Yes, it would help if you watched out for chest pain, blurred vision, headache, nausea, pain in the jaw or arm, anxiety, shortness of breath, seizures, confusion, or a general lack of responsiveness. Coupled with a high blood pressure reading, any of these are causes for emergency response.
What kind of treatment will I get at the ER for hypertension?
If you are diagnosed with a hypertensive episode, you will be given oral or intravenous medications to lower your blood pressure. Damage will also be assessed. If the heart is involved or you’ve had a stroke, additional treatment will be given to address those complications.
Can a freestanding ER handle my hypertensive crisis?
Most definitely. We’re open 24/7 every day of the year. You’ll get a board-certified physician with many years of experience, so don’t hesitate to come in if you are concerned about your blood pressure reading or experiencing any of the above symptoms. At ER of Texas, you will find much of the same equipment as in a hospital-based ER, including what is needed to treat a hypertensive crisis, heart attack, or stroke. Without the long wait times, you will be comfortable, diagnosed, and treated in record time.
Eight convenient locations
ER of Texas is available in eight locations for your convenience: Highland Village, Little Elm, Hurst, Colleyville, Texoma, Hillcrest, Uptown, Mansfield and Dallas, Texas surrounding communities.
ER of Texas: Commitment to Care.
We are happy to speak to you on the phone and provide you with more information and resources. Call us today at to learn more.
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