Short answer
A blood pressure higher than 180 systolic and/or higher than 120 diastolic is severe hypertension. Wait 1 minute and measure again. If it is still that high, contact a healthcare professional right away; with symptoms such as chest pain or numbness, call 911.
1. The threshold
Severe hypertension means a systolic higher than 180 and/or a diastolic higher than 120. A reading of exactly 180/120 is not above it, so 180/110 is stage 2 by the numbers.
2. What the AHA advises
- 1Wait one minute and measure again.
- 2If it is still above 180/120 and you have no symptoms, contact your healthcare professional right away.
- 3If you have symptoms, call 911 or your local emergency number. Do not wait.
3. Symptoms that make it an emergency
- Chest pain
- Shortness of breath
- Back pain
- Numbness or weakness
- Change in vision
- Difficulty speaking
With these symptoms a reading above 180/120 may be a hypertensive emergency.
4. Before you panic
Check the basics first: rest for five minutes, sit with your back supported and feet flat, and keep your arm at heart level. See how to measure blood pressure at home. Then check the reading in the Blood Pressure Category Calculator, which has a symptoms check built in.
5. Frequently asked questions
What blood pressure is a hypertensive crisis?expand_more
Higher than 180 systolic and/or higher than 120 diastolic.
What should I do if my reading is above 180/120?expand_more
Wait a minute and measure again. If it is still that high, contact your healthcare professional right away, or call 911 if you have symptoms.
Which symptoms make it an emergency?expand_more
Chest pain, shortness of breath, back pain, numbness, weakness, change in vision or difficulty speaking.
Is 180/120 itself a crisis?expand_more
No. The thresholds are numbers higher than 180 and/or 120.