“Around a third of adults in the UK have high blood pressure” say the NHS. Of this third, many will be unaware they have high blood pressure. The only way to find this out is through having blood pressure checked; high blood pressure can often increase the risk of further complications. It is also possible to experience a dangerous form of high blood pressure known as a hypertensive crisis.
A hypertensive crisis is a severe increase in blood pressure, this severe increase to lead to the occurrence of a stroke.
Dr Sheldon Sheps describes hypertensive crises as: “life threatening.”
As a result, it’s important to spot the symptoms so potentially life-saving treatment can be administered.
Symptoms of a hypertensive crisis include severe chest pain and a severe headache; the latter will often be accompanied by confusion and blurred vision.
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Other signs of a hypertensive crisis are:
• Nausea and vomiting
• Severe anxiety
• Shortness of breath
• Seizures
• Unresponsiveness.
It is recommended that a person experiencing a hypertensive crisis should seek medical treatment as soon as possible.
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As to why so many young people are suffering from a form of hypertension is unclear.
A number of factors such as diet, levels of activity, and mental health can have an impact on the blood pressure of an individual.
Lifestyle changes such as improving diet, cutting down on alcohol and caffeine, quitting smoking, exercising are ways to lower high blood pressure alongside the potential use of prescription medication.
For more information on hypertension contact the NHS or consult with your GP.
