Lower Blood Pressure in an Emergency: Fast and Safe Techniques

Blood pressure is the pressure applied to the walls of the arteries when your heart pumps blood. Normal blood pressure is 120/80 mm Hg. 120 is the pressure when the heart pumps, known as systolic pressure, and 80 is when the heart relaxes, also known as diastolic pressure. However, high blood pressure can cause many medical problems. As a result, you must know how to lower blood pressure instantly in an emergency.

What you should know:

• Types of blood pressure
• Sudden high blood pressure causes
• Symptoms of sudden high blood pressure
• How to lower blood pressure instantly in an emergency?

Types of blood pressure levels

High blood pressure refers to the progressive increase in blood pressure, which can strain the blood vessels and your heart over time. In addition, it narrows the blood vessels, leading to elevated blood pressure levels, further burdening the cardiovascular system. 

Before you know “how to lower blood pressure instantly”, it is vital to understand all the types of high blood pressure to treat it better!

Blood Pressure Levels	Systolic (mm Hg)	Diastolic (mm Hg)
Normal Blood Pressure	Lesser than 120 mm Hg	Lesser than 80 mm Hg
High Blood Pressure	Between 130 and 139 mm Hg	Lesser than 80 mm Hg
Stage 1 Hypertension	Between 130 and 139 mm Hg	Between 80 and 89 mm Hg
Stage 2 Hypertension	More than 140 mm Hg	More than 90 mm Hg
Hypertensive Crisis	Higher than 180 mm Hg	Higher than 120 mm Hg

Sudden high blood pressure causes

Sudden high blood pressure, or acute hypertension, can be alarming and requires immediate attention. So, if you want to know how to lower blood pressure instantly, you must watch out for potential underlying causes. 

• Stress or anxiety: Intense emotional or psychological stress can trigger a sudden increase in blood pressure.
• Sedentary lifestyle: A lack of physical activity over time can cause sudden high blood pressure.  
• Medications: Some medicines, like NSAIDs and decongestants, can cause a sudden spike in blood pressure.
• Kidney problems: Kidney diseases or disorders, such as renal artery stenosis or kidney infection, can lead to sudden high blood pressure.
• Hormonal imbalances: Conditions like hyperthyroidism can affect hormone levels and contribute to sudden blood pressure spikes.
• Certain medical procedures: Specific medical procedures, such as surgery or diagnostic tests, can temporarily raise blood pressure.
• Genetics and family history: A family history of hypertension can increase the likelihood of experiencing sudden spikes in blood pressure.

Symptoms of sudden high blood pressure

Here are some of the symptoms you should watch out for:

Nausea or vomiting

Sudden high blood pressure can trigger feelings of nausea or even lead to vomiting in some individuals.

Severe headache

Sudden and intense headaches, often described as a pounding or throbbing sensation, can indicate elevated blood pressure levels.

Pounding sensation

Experiencing pounding sensations in the ears and neck may indicate a sudden increase in blood pressure.

Vision problems

Sudden high blood pressure can damage visual perception. Your vision may become blurred, and you may experience difficulty focusing.

Fatigue

Feeling excessively tired, weak, or lacking energy can be a symptom of sudden high blood pressure.

Difficulty breathing

Breathing difficulties, shortness of breath, or a feeling of suffocation can be a warning sign of sudden high blood pressure.

Chest pain

Chest discomfort or chest pain may occur during episodes of acute hypertension and should not be ignored.

Mental fog

Sudden high blood pressure can make concentration difficult, and you may need help recalling even the most basic everyday details. 

Excessive sweating

Excessive sweating, particularly when not engaging in physical activity or a hot environment, can be a symptom of a sudden spike in blood pressure.

Swelling

Sudden swelling in the legs, ankles, or feet could indicate that your blood pressure is out of control.

Be sure to visit a medical professional if you feel uneasy. Chronic high blood pressure can lead to chronic illnesses. So, it’s important to take symptoms seriously.

How to instantly lower blood pressure in a home emergency?

If you are wondering how to lower blood pressure instantly or just how to lower blood pressure, here are some of the tricks and practises you can follow:

The 60-second trick

Lower your blood pressure quickly with deep breathing: sit comfortably, close your eyes, inhale deeply through your nose for 5 seconds, hold for 1-2 seconds, and exhale slowly through your mouth for 5 seconds. Repeat for 60 seconds. This activates relaxation, reduces heart rate, and lowers stress hormones, providing immediate relief.

Drink water

Drinking water can help dilute your blood and temporarily lower blood pressure. Aim to stay adequately hydrated throughout the day, especially during an emergency. 

Deep breathing techniques

Deep breathing techniques can help relax your body and promote a sense of calm. For example, take slow, deep breaths through your nose and exhale through your mouth. Reducing stress and tension can help lower blood pressure. Light physical activity, such as brisk walking or gentle stretching, can also help temporarily lower blood pressure.

Cold compression

Placing cold compresses, such as ice packs or cold towels, on your forehead, neck, or wrists can help constrict blood vessels and lower blood pressure. However, ensure the compresses are not too cold to avoid discomfort or skin damage.

Drink hibiscus tea 

A cup of hibiscus or chamomile tea can also help you feel calmer. It is a good idea to stock up on these teabags. However, avoid black tea or coffee at this time.

Eat dark chocolate 

You can also eat dark chocolate to help release endorphins that will calm you down.

Reduce sodium and increase potassium

Potassium also eases tension in the body. To lower your blood pressure, consider increasing your potassium intake and reducing your salt consumption. 

Small, consistent steps over time are the best way to control high blood pressure. However, if you are in an emergency, remember to stay as calm as possible and follow the above points.

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