Maintaining healthy blood pressure is vital for overall well-being. If your blood pressure readings fall within the normal range, it’s important to continue heart-healthy habits like a balanced diet and regular exercise to sustain this.
For those with elevated blood pressure, consulting with a healthcare professional is crucial to manage and control it effectively.
In cases of Stage 1 hypertension, lifestyle modifications are typically recommended by healthcare providers. Depending on individual risk factors for heart disease or stroke, and the presence of conditions like diabetes, heart failure, or kidney disease, medication might also be considered.
Stage 2 hypertension usually necessitates both blood pressure medication and lifestyle adjustments as prescribed by your healthcare professional.
A hypertensive crisis is a medical emergency requiring immediate attention.
If you obtain an unusually high blood pressure reading, it’s recommended to:
- Rest for five minutes after your initial reading.
- Measure your blood pressure again.
Should the readings remain significantly elevated, promptly contact your healthcare provider.
Seek emergency medical help by calling 911 if your blood pressure exceeds 180/120 and you experience any of the following symptoms:
- Chest pain
- Shortness of breath
- Back pain
- Numbness or weakness
- Vision changes
- Difficulty speaking
Decoding Your Blood Pressure Readings
Blood pressure is expressed as two numbers:
- Systolic blood pressure: This is the upper number, representing the pressure in your arteries when your heart contracts (beats).
- Diastolic blood pressure: The lower number indicates the pressure in your arteries when your heart is at rest between beats.
Systolic vs. Diastolic: Which Number Matters More?
Either an elevated systolic or diastolic reading can lead to a diagnosis of high blood pressure. However, for individuals over 50, systolic blood pressure is often a stronger predictor of heart disease risk. This is because as we age, systolic blood pressure tends to increase due to factors like:
- Arterial stiffening
- Plaque accumulation in arteries
- Increased prevalence of heart and blood vessel diseases
For more detailed information, you can explore resources on high blood pressure.
