Definition:
A hypertensive crisis is a sudden sharp increase in blood pressure. If it is not treated promptly it can lead to stroke, coma and even death.
In particular, a person taking a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) antidepressant should be aware of the symptoms of hypertensive crisis and seek emergency medical attention if those symptoms appear. They include:
A hypertensive crisis is a sudden sharp increase in blood pressure. If it is not treated promptly it can lead to stroke, coma and even death.
In particular, a person taking a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) antidepressant should be aware of the symptoms of hypertensive crisis and seek emergency medical attention if those symptoms appear. They include:
- severe chest pain
- severe headache
- stiff or sore neck
- enlarged pupils
- fast or slow heartbeat
- increased sensitivity of eyes to light
- increased sweating (possibly with fever or cold, clammy skin)
- nausea and vomiting
Pronunciation: HIGH-per-TEN-sihv CRY-sis
