Should I go to the ER Blood pressure's HIGH

MikeyJ, RN · Sep 29, 2008

We cannot offer medical advice here, but if you are concerned then you should consult with a physician or go to an ER.

SuesquatchRN, BSN, RN · Sep 29, 2008

Dude. Go to the ER. Worst thing that happens is you wait for a long time to see someone. Best thing that happens is that nothing bad happens from the elevated BP, headaches, and other bad things you're feeling now.

Farmer Jane · Sep 29, 2008

Yup. ER.

kmoonshine, RN · Sep 29, 2008

We can't give medical advice so see your doctor.

The ED isn't the place to go for BP management unless the patient is having acute problems related to their elevated BP (as in sudden hypertensive crisis). We can't manage a pt's chronic BP condition which is why we always refer to a PCP. That way, the PCP can follow-up and monitor the response to dietary changes, lifestyle modifications, and medication adjustments.

We often don't mess around with chronic HTN in the ED unless the patient is symptomatic. Dropping someone's BP fast can actually cause a stroke because the body is used to maintaining such high pressures in the body (a sudden BP drop causes decreased cerebral perfusion). Conversely, elevated BP can also cause stroke, so its a lose-lose situation and must be agressively managed by a PCP.

Home Health Columnist / Guide · Sep 29, 2008

Headaches, feeling like crap and elevated BP's ---who knows what other symptom's you are overlooking. If you feel that bad, are asking nursing advise--taking thyself to ER if concerned emergent situation and followup with PCP.