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A hypertensive emergency is very high blood pressure that damages the body. It can cause damage to the brain, heart, eyes, or kidneys.
A hypertensive emergency needs immediate care. Quick-acting medicines are used to lower blood pressure.
The cause may be unknown. Or the problem may be caused by medicine or another condition. Symptoms include headache, chest pain, trouble breathing, numbness, blurry vision, and confusion.
This problem is also called malignant hypertension.
Current as of: September 7, 2022
Author: Healthwise Staff
Medical Review:Adam Husney MD - Family Medicine & E. Gregory Thompson MD - Internal Medicine & Martin J. Gabica MD - Family Medicine & Robert A. Kloner MD, PhD - Cardiology & Heather Quinn MD - Family Medicine & Lesley Ryan MD - Family Medicine
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