It is natural for a person’s blood pressure to fluctuate throughout the day and increase slightly at certain points, such as during exercise. However, a sudden and significant rise in blood pressure may cause serious symptoms or require medical attention.
This article discusses the causes of sudden high blood pressure, including information on who may be more at risk of developing it and when to get help. It also answers some frequently asked questions on the topic.
What causes sudden high blood pressure?
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Taking a person’s blood pressure includes two separate measurements: systolic and diastolic pressure. Another term for high blood pressure is hypertension.
According to the American Heart Association (AHA)Trusted Source, a person has stage 1 hypertension when the systolic reading is between 130 and 139 millimeters of mercury (mm Hg) and the diastolic reading is between 80 and 89 mm Hg.
If the readings show a systolic pressure of 180 mm Hg or higher, a diastolic pressure of 120 mm Hg or higher, or both, this indicates a more severe rise in blood pressure. This is also known as a hypertensive crisis.
There are several reasons a person may experience sudden high blood pressure, including:
- caffeine or other stimulants
- certain medications
- missed doses of certain medications
- certain illegal drugs, such as cocaine or methamphetamines
- stress or anxiety
- pain
- smoking
- illness or infection
- intense physical activity
- organ damage or organ failure
Hypertensive emergency refers to a significant rise in blood pressure and has associations with organ dysfunction.
Two of the most common causesTrusted Source of hypertensive emergency include missing doses of blood pressure medication and consuming sympathomimetic substances, such as medications, caffeine, and other stimulants. Sympathomimetic substances stimulate the body’s fight-or-flight response.
Getting medical help for sudden high blood pressure
In some cases, a sudden rise in blood pressure can be a serious medical emergency, especially if it is very high. This mayTrusted Source indicate a hypertensive urgency or emergency, a state that could potentially lead to organ damage.
Signs of a severe blood pressure rise include:
- chest pain
- headache
- dizziness
- shortness of breath
- vomiting
- changes in vision
- confusion or altered mental state
- decreased urine output
- numbness or weakness
If a person thinks they may be experiencing hypertensive urgency or emergency, they need to seek medical help immediately.
If someone believes they may be experiencing a sudden rise in blood pressure but do not feel unwell, they need to consult a healthcare professional to assess the cause.
-Medical News Today
