Florida State Paramedic Practice Exam

Which condition describes high blood pressure causing severe symptoms such as headache and dizziness?

1. Myocardial infarction

2. Hypertensive crisis

3. Cerebral edema

4. Coronary artery spasm

The correct answer is: Hypertensive crisis

High blood pressure leading to severe symptoms like headache and dizziness is characteristic of a hypertensive crisis. This condition occurs when blood pressure readings reach dangerously high levels, typically above 180/120 mm Hg. The abrupt rise in blood pressure can cause significant strain on the cardiovascular system and lead to acute symptoms and complications. During a hypertensive crisis, the body's organs, especially the brain, can become compromised. Symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, and sometimes even confusion or altered mental status can occur as the body responds to the excessive pressure. The risk of severe complications increases significantly, including the potential for stroke, heart attack, or organ damage, making it a medical emergency that requires immediate treatment to lower blood pressure safely. In contrast, conditions like myocardial infarction involve blockage of blood flow to the heart, but do not specifically relate to high blood pressure causing acute symptoms like a hypertensive crisis does. Cerebral edema refers to swelling in the brain due to fluid accumulation, which can occur due to various reasons other than just high blood pressure. Coronary artery spasm involves the temporary tightening of the muscles within the arteries that supply blood to the heart, which can lead to angina or heart muscle damage, but it does not specifically relate to elevated blood pressure causing