Can You Die From High Blood Pressure?

According to the Mayo Clinic, hypertension is defined as having blood pressure readings greater than 140/90. According to the Cleveland Clinic, a hypertensive crisis is defined as having blood pressure readings of greater than 180/110. Both chronic hypertension and a hypertensive crisis can result in death.

Types

• High blood pressure that lasts for many years is referred to as chronic hypertension. High blood pressure can also occur suddenly; this is called a hypertensive crisis.

Time Frame

• Uncontrolled high blood pressure can, over many years, damage the arteries and weaken the heart muscle. A hypertensive crisis can result in death within a matter of hours if serious complications occur.

Features

• Chronic high blood pressure occurs when blood pressure remains over 140/90 for many years. Symptoms of high blood pressure may include headaches, dizziness and nosebleeds. A hypertensive crisis may cause symptoms such as severe headache, feelings of anxiety and difficulty breathing.

Effects

• Over time, chronic high blood pressure causes the blood vessels and arteries to become stiffer and more susceptible to cholesterol blockages that cause heart attacks. A hypertensive crisis can lead to serious complications such as stroke, heart attack, pulmonary edema and seizures.

Prevention/Solution

• Chronic high blood pressure is treated with medications such thiazide diuretics, beta blockers and ACE inhibitors. A hypertensive crisis requires emergency treatment involving either oral medications or stronger IV medications.