Blood pressure, the force of blood pressing against the artery walls, is measured using two numbers: systolic “over” diastolic (110 “over” 80 or 110/80). The first number, systolic blood pressure, is the pressure of blood flow when the heart beats. The second, diastolic, is when the heart is relaxed between beats. What do these numbers mean?
|
Category |
Systolic |
|
Diastolic |
Meaning |
|
Normal |
less than 120 |
and | less than 80 |
Your blood pressure is at a healthy level. Maintain your lifestyle and be sure to get your blood pressure checked at least every 2 years. |
|
Prehypertension |
120-139 | or | 80-89 | Your blood pressure might become a problem. Now is the time to be aware of your lifestyle and make any necessary changes to it: exercise more, eat well, control your weight, stop smoking, and manage stress. Have your blood pressure checked annually at least. |
|
Hypertension |
140 or higher |
or | 90 or higher |
You have high blood pressure. You’ll need to make positive changes to your lifestyle and will likely be prescribed at least one medication to help lower your blood pressure below 140/90. |
Why it’s important
Consistently high blood pressure means your heart is required to pump against more resistance, causing injury to both the heart and arteries. Hypertension is also labeled “the silent killer” because many have it and are left unaware. If hypertension is left undetected and untreated, is significantly increases the risk of a future heart attack and stroke.
Risk factors
Hypertension is not necessarily caused by one specific factor. However, there are a variety of factors of your life that may increase your risk of being diagnosed with high blood pressure:
- Those you can’t change: age, ethnicity, family history
- Those you can change: being overweight, diet, inactivity, stress, smoking
Prevention
You can work to prevent hypertension in the following ways:
- Eat plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and low-fat proteins like nuts and fish
- Reduce the amount of salt (sodium) you’re consuming
- Exercise regularly
- Maintain a healthy weight
- Drink less alcohol
- Quit smoking
Diagnosis and treatment
Healthcare providers measure blood pressure using a cuff placed on your arm. If diagnosed, treatment will usually involve both medication and a change in lifestyle and stress management.
