When To Call 911 About High Blood Pressure (2024)

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

Types of high blood pressure crises to watch for

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.

Hypertensive Urgency

If your blood pressure is 180/120 or greater:

• Wait at least 1-2 minutes
• 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
• Confusion
• Dizziness
• Vomiting

If you do not have any of these symptoms or any other new and concerning symptoms, you probably have hypertensive urgency. 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.

Written by American Heart Association editorial staff and reviewed by science and medicine advisors.

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