How high does hypertension need to be to require hospitalization?
Apr 18, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Tian Hongbo
Introduction
In general, Grade 3 hypertension, defined as systolic blood pressure above 180 mmHg or diastolic blood pressure above 110 mmHg, is clinically considered severe hypertension and usually requires hospitalization. Hypertension typically refers to the condition in which the force exerted by circulating blood against the walls of blood vessels is persistently elevated beyond normal levels.
In general, Grade 3 hypertension—defined as a systolic blood pressure above 180 mmHg or a diastolic blood pressure above 110 mmHg—is clinically considered severe hypertension. Hospitalization is required in such cases, and the details are as follows:
Hypertension typically refers to the pressure exerted by circulating blood on the walls of blood vessels, which persistently exceeds normal values. This condition is a chronic disease that can be controlled but usually requires lifelong management. It is classified into hypertensive urgency, non-urgent hypertension, and hypertensive emergency. Normal systolic and diastolic blood pressure should remain within the range of 130/85 mmHg. If a patient's systolic blood pressure consistently reaches or exceeds 180 mmHg, or diastolic pressure exceeds 110 mmHg—even in the absence of other risk factors or organ damage—hospitalization is necessary. Persistently elevated systolic pressure may lead to damage in vital organs such as the brain, heart, and kidneys, potentially causing complications including impaired consciousness, cerebral infarction, or angina pectoris. In such situations, patients must receive prompt antihypertensive treatment under medical supervision to avoid inappropriate or self-directed medication use.
Patients are also advised to undergo further evaluation at a qualified medical facility to determine whether the hypertension is primary or secondary, ensuring timely and accurate diagnosis and preventing delays in appropriate treatment.
