10 Symptoms of High Blood Pressure (and When to Head to the ER)

High blood pressure, or hypertension, is often called the “silent killer” because it can go unnoticed until serious complications arise. While some individuals may have no obvious symptoms, others may experience signs that should never be ignored. Knowing these warning signs can help you protect your heart and health. Here's what to look out for and when to seek emergency care. 

Common Symptoms of High Blood Pressure 

Understanding the signs of high blood pressure can be lifesaving. Keep an eye out for these 10 symptoms, especially if they occur suddenly or feel severe: 

1. Severe Headache
   Sudden, intense headaches can signal a dangerous spike in blood pressure.
2. Chest Pain
   Chest pressure or pain can indicate heart strain caused by elevated blood pressure.
3. Blurred or Double Vision
   High blood pressure can damage eye blood vessels, leading to visual disturbances.
4. Difficulty Breathing
   Shortness of breath may suggest that your heart is struggling to pump effectively.
5. Nausea or Vomiting
   These symptoms can accompany dangerously high blood pressure levels.
6. Facial Flushing
   While not always alarming, sudden redness in your face can occur during high blood pressure episodes.
7. Dizziness or Lightheadedness
   If you feel unsteady, your blood pressure might be too high.
8. Nosebleeds
   Frequent or heavy nosebleeds can be a red flag for hypertension.
9. Irregular Heartbeat
   Palpitations or heart fluttering may indicate blood pressure concerns.
10. Fatigue or Confusion
    Feeling mentally foggy or extremely tired could mean the brain isn't getting enough oxygen due to elevated blood pressure.

When Does High Blood Pressure Become an Emergency? 

Not every case of high blood pressure requires a trip to the ER, but there are instances when immediate care is crucial. A hypertensive crisis occurs when your blood pressure readings exceed 180/120 mmHg, and it is often accompanied by severe symptoms like chest pain or difficulty breathing. For example, readings like 220/142, 214/110, or 192 can indicate dangerously high levels requiring urgent attention. Additionally, a 98/68 heart rate of 120 paired with symptoms could suggest your heart is working overtime, and immediate care is essential. 

Call 911 or go to an ER right away if you experience: 

• Severe chest pain 
• Sudden weakness, numbness, or difficulty speaking (stroke symptoms) 
• Vision loss or persistent blindness in one or both eyes 
• Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing 

These scenarios are emergencies, and delaying treatment could have life-threatening consequences. 

Partner With the Experts at TotalCare 

Managing high blood pressure should always be a priority, but emergencies can still happen. When they do, trust TotalCare’s freestanding ERs and urgent care/family clinics to provide the fast, compassionate, and expert care you need.  Conveniently located across the Dallas/Fort Worth Metroplex, TotalCare is proud to serve Texans with exceptional service backed by over 10,000 5-star patient reviews. That’s why we’re known as the "choice ERs of Texas" and the "choice urgent care/family clinics of Texas."  Don’t wait for symptoms to worsen. Visit one of our facilities at any time—day or night—and rest assured that you’re in capable hands. Together, we’ll prioritize your health and support your path to recovery.  Your well-being matters, and we’re here when you need us.