High blood pressure becomes dangerous when it is consistently above 130/80 mm Hg. At this level and beyond, it increases the risk of serious health complications such as heart attack, stroke, heart failure, kidney damage, and vision loss. The higher the blood pressure and the longer it remains uncontrolled, the greater the risk and extent of damage to arteries, the heart, kidneys, brain, and eyes.
Health Risks of High Blood Pressure
- High blood pressure can cause hardening and narrowing of arteries (atherosclerosis), increasing the risk of heart attack and stroke.
- It can lead to life-threatening conditions like aneurysms (weakened artery bulges that can rupture).
- The heart has to work harder, which may cause the heart muscle to thicken (left ventricular hypertrophy) and eventually lead to heart failure.
- It can damage blood vessels in the kidneys, reducing their ability to filter blood and potentially causing kidney failure.
- Damage to the tiny blood vessels in the eyes may lead to vision impairment or loss.
- Hypertension can cause cognitive decline and increase the risk of vascular dementia due to reduced blood flow to the brain.
When to Seek Emergency Help
- Blood pressure readings of 180/110 mm Hg or higher constitute a hypertensive crisis, a medical emergency requiring immediate treatment to prevent severe organ damage or death.
Controlling blood pressure through lifestyle changes and medication reduces these risks and prevents long-term damage.
In summary, blood pressure above 130/80 mm Hg is considered high and can be dangerous if untreated, leading to multiple life-threatening complications. Emergency medical attention is critical if blood pressure gets extremely high (e.g., 180/110 mm Hg or above).