Question

A 75-year-old man with poorly controlled hypertension presents with sudden onset severe occipital headache, vomiting and decreased consciousness. Blood pressure is 230/120 mmHg. CT brain reveals a large intracerebral haemorrhage. According to stroke guidelines, which blood pressure management strategy is most appropriate in the first 24 hours?

Accepted Answer

Target systolic blood pressure of around 140 mmHg using intravenous antihypertensives

Answer

Leave blood pressure untreated to maintain cerebral perfusion

Answer

Lower systolic blood pressure rapidly to <100 mmHg

Answer

Aim for systolic blood pressure <90 mmHg

Answer

Use oral antihypertensives only and avoid intravenous agents

Practice question