Malignant Hypertension Explained

Tuesday, April 27, 2010

Malignant hypertension is characterized by a severe rise in the blood pressure which cannot then be lowered. It is diagnosed by the presence of advanced retinopathy in the presence of a diastolic blood pressure of over 120 mm Hg.

Malignant hypertension is more common in people of an African decent and also more common in smokers. It affects about 1% of people already suffering with high blood pressure. It is also been known to occur children, and in women join pregnancy.


When malignant hypertension occurs, there is usually a characteristic rush or increase in the blood pressure often for no apparent reason. Because it is very difficult to reduce malignant blood pressure, it can and will cause the vital organs of the body irreversible damage. The organs are all put under tremendous pressure. This can include damage to the brain, eyes, heart, kidneys and blood vessels.

Those suffering from malignant hypertension may also complain of

• Confusion • Decreased urinary output • Headaches • Vomiting • Abnormal sensations to the arms, legs and other areas. • Some visual disturbances. • Change in their mental state • Restlessness and anxiety • Decreased alertness and ability to think and concentrate • Extreme fatigue • Chest pain • Shortness of breath and cough

The prognosis of people suffering from malignant hypertension can be bleak, as the damage caused to the body is often life threatening especially to older people suffering from malignant hypertension.

Any treatment given to a person suffering with malignant hypertension, should be given carefully as a sudden decrease in the blood pressure from very high levels can be just as dangerous as a blood pressure kept at a consistently high level. Malignant blood pressure should be decreased gradually over a period of at least a week. Complete bed rest is also often prescribed to ensure no addition stress is placed on the body.

If it is treated promptly, malignant hypertension can be controlled without any further complications. However the person suffering with malignant hypertension should be monitored very carefully.