A complication of severe HYPERTENSION, this serious but uncommon condition is characterised by neurological symptoms which include transient verbal and visual disturbances, PARAESTHESIA, disorientation, FITS and sometimes loss of consciousness. It also affects the eyes, causing PAPILLOEDEMA. Haemorrhages may occur in the brain, usually in the area of the BASAL GANGLIA. Neurological symptoms can usually be treated effectively by controlling the patient's hypertension.