Hypertensive crisis is defined as which BP reading?

Hypertensive crisis is defined as which BP reading?

• A. 120–129 / <80
• B. 130–139 / 80–89
• C. ≥140 / ≥90
• D. ≥180 / ≥120

Answer: (D)

Hypertensive crisis occurs when blood pressure reaches a level that can threaten organs, defined specifically as systolic pressure of 180 mm Hg or higher or diastolic pressure of 120 mm Hg or higher. This threshold marks a danger zone beyond routine hypertension and requires urgent medical evaluation. Readings below this level fit into normal, elevated, or hypertensive stage categories, not crisis. If organ damage is present, it’s a hypertensive emergency; without organ damage, it’s a hypertensive urgency, but both require prompt attention.

Hypertensive crisis occurs when blood pressure reaches a level that can threaten organs, defined specifically as systolic pressure of 180 mm Hg or higher or diastolic pressure of 120 mm Hg or higher. This threshold marks a danger zone beyond routine hypertension and requires urgent medical evaluation. Readings below this level fit into normal, elevated, or hypertensive stage categories, not crisis. If organ damage is present, it’s a hypertensive emergency; without organ damage, it’s a hypertensive urgency, but both require prompt attention.