The Dangers of Hypertension: When to Act Immediately

Arterial hypertension (AH), or high blood pressure (over 140/90 mm Hg), is one of the most common diseases in Russia, affecting 40 to 47% of the population. This is a serious medical and social problem, since AH often leads to such dangerous complications as stroke, heart attack, heart rhythm disturbances, heart failure, kidney and large vessel damage, as well as cognitive dysfunction and dementia. We talked to experts who answered the most pressing questions about hypertension and explained when this condition requires immediate medical intervention.

The insidiousness of hypertension

Yuliana Belova, an endocrinologist and candidate of medical sciences, emphasizes that the danger of hypertension lies in its asymptomatic course. A person may not suspect high blood pressure for a long time until a hypertensive crisis occurs. This condition is characterized by a sharp rise in blood pressure (more than 200/140 mm Hg) and is accompanied by symptoms such as severe headache, palpitations, difficulty breathing, dizziness, flashing spots before the eyes, trembling, sweating and agitation.

Immediate response

If such symptoms appear, it is necessary to immediately call an ambulance, since without timely treatment, a hypertensive crisis can lead to serious complications, even death.

"In this case, you need to call an ambulance immediately, since without treatment this condition can lead to serious complications and even death," warns Yuliana Belova.

After stopping the attack, it is important to undergo a comprehensive examination to determine the cause of hypertension.

"After stopping the attack, it is imperative to undergo a comprehensive examination, since hypertension can be not only an independent disease (hypertension), but also a symptom of a number of diseases of internal organs, including the kidneys and endocrine glands," the expert adds.

Associated diseases

AG can be both an independent disease (hypertension) and a symptom of other diseases of internal organs, such as kidney and endocrine gland diseases. With successful treatment of these diseases, blood pressure can be normalized.

“This is important to know, since in case of successful treatment of these diseases, hypertension is completely reversible,” notes Yuliana Belova.

Signs of endocrine diseases

Doctor Belova also notes that in some cases hypertension may indicate the presence of endocrine diseases. You should pay attention to your health if hypertension is accompanied by symptoms such as constant rapid heartbeat, tremors, bulging eyes, heavy sweating, severe muscle weakness, excessive hair growth, bruises and stretch marks on the skin, persistent facial redness, persistent thirst, rapid weight gain and frequent attacks of sudden increases in blood pressure.

"You can suspect the presence of an endocrine disease in cases where hypertension is combined with symptoms such as: constant (even at rest) rapid heartbeat and trembling, bulging eyes, heavy sweating, sudden muscle weakness, excessive hair growth, bruises and stretch marks on the skin, persistent redness of the face, persistent thirst, rapid weight gain, frequent attacks of sudden increases in blood pressure, etc.," the expert explains.

Immediate Intervention for Hypertension

Mikhail Kutushov, toxicologist and candidate of medical sciences, adds:

"High blood pressure is a serious condition that can lead to heart attack, stroke, kidney failure and other life-threatening complications. Although many people with hypertension can live normal lives with medication and lifestyle changes, there are situations when immediate medical intervention is needed."

Such situations include severe dizziness and loss of consciousness.

"A sharp drop in blood pressure, which can be caused by severe stress, bleeding, dehydration or taking certain medications, is accompanied by dizziness, darkening of the eyes and nausea. In such a situation, it is necessary to immediately call an ambulance," emphasizes Mikhail Kutushov.

Before the arrival of doctors, the person should be placed on his back, his legs raised and provided with fresh air.

Other dangerous symptoms

Hypertension can cause rapid heartbeat, especially in stressful situations, accompanied by anxiety and shortness of breath.

"In such a situation, take a deep breath, try to relax, rest. If the symptoms do not go away, consult a doctor," advises Kutyshov.

Fever may also occur, especially if there is an infection or inflammation.

"In this case, take an antipyretic if prescribed by your doctor. If the temperature does not drop, call an ambulance," the expert recommends.

High blood pressure can damage the blood vessels in the eyes, leading to changes in vision.

"Symptoms include blurred vision, double vision, or complete loss of vision. High blood pressure can also affect the functioning of the heart vessels, which often leads to chest pain. In such situations, call an ambulance immediately," emphasizes Mikhail Kutushov.

Contact a specialist

If you experience frequent urination, increased urine output, or pain when urinating, you should also suspect hypertension and consult a doctor.

"Frequent urination, increased amount of urine, pain when urinating are also symptoms of hypertension, so if you suspect that frequent urges are associated with this problem, consult a doctor immediately," notes Mikhail Kutyshov.

Regular check-ups

Remember that not all hypertension symptoms are life-threatening. It is important to see your doctor regularly and monitor your blood pressure.

"Do not forget that self-medication can be dangerous. Only a doctor can make a correct diagnosis and prescribe adequate treatment," concludes Mikhail Kutushov.

Hypertension is a disease that requires careful attention and timely response. At the first signs of deterioration, it is necessary to seek medical help to avoid serious consequences and maintain health.