What are the 4 stages of hypertension?

Verified by Dr. Bharat Agarwal, Consultant Internal Medicine and Dr. Akshay Chhallani, Consultant Critical Care Specialist & Medical Advisor, Apollo Hospitals, Navi Mumbai,

Hypertension, commonly known as high blood pressure, is a chronic medical condition characterized by consistently elevated blood pressure levels. It is a significant risk factor for various cardiovascular diseases, including heart attacks, strokes, and kidney problems. Hypertension is typically categorized into four stages based on the severity of the condition and the blood pressure readings. These stages help healthcare professionals determine the appropriate treatment and management approach for hypertension. The four stages of hypertension are as follows:

• Stage 1 Hypertension: In this stage, the systolic blood pressure (the top number) ranges between 130-139 mmHg, or the diastolic blood pressure (the bottom number) ranges between 80-89 mmHg. Stage 1 hypertension indicates that the blood pressure is consistently elevated, but not severely so. Lifestyle modifications, such as dietary changes, regular exercise, and stress reduction, are typically recommended as the first-line treatment in this stage.

• Stage 2 Hypertension: Stage 2 hypertension is diagnosed when the systolic blood pressure is 140 mmHg or higher, or the diastolic blood pressure is 90 mmHg or higher. At this stage, the elevated blood pressure is more severe and requires more aggressive management. Lifestyle changes, along with antihypertensive medications, are often prescribed to lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of complications.
• Hypertensive Crisis: A hypertensive crisis is a severe and potentially life-threatening condition. It can be further divided into two subcategories:
• Hypertensive Urgency: In this condition, the blood pressure readings are significantly elevated (systolic blood pressure is usually 180 mmHg or higher, or the diastolic blood pressure is 120 mmHg or higher). However, there is no evidence of immediate organ damage. Prompt intervention with medications is necessary to bring the blood pressure down gradually.
• Hypertensive Emergency: Hypertensive emergency is a critical situation where extremely high blood pressure is causing acute organ damage. This can include symptoms like severe headache, chest pain, shortness of breath, and neurological deficits. Hospitalization and immediate intravenous medications are required to lower blood pressure rapidly and prevent further complications.

It is crucial for individuals with hypertension to regularly monitor their blood pressure, follow their healthcare provider’s recommendations, take prescribed medications as directed, and make necessary lifestyle changes to manage their condition effectively and reduce the risk of complications. Hypertension is a chronic condition that requires ongoing attention and management to maintain optimal health.

If you or your loved one are worried about your blood pressure reports, consult our experts, Dr. Bharat Agarwal and Dr. Akshay Chhallani at Apollo Hospitals, Navi Mumbai, for a detailed management protocol for hypertension.

Call 022 6280 6280 for an appointment.