Understanding 157/97 Blood Pressure Reading - Diagnosis and Management of Hypertension
Blood pressure readings contain two numbers, such as 157/97. The first number is your systolic pressure, which measures pressure in the arteries when the heart beats. The second number is your diastolic pressure, measuring pressure between heartbeats.
Classification of 157/97 Blood Pressure
Based on American Heart Association guidelines:
- 157 mm Hg systolic is stage 2 hypertension
- 97 mm Hg diastolic is stage 1 hypertension
So a reading of 157/97 overall categorizes as stage 2 hypertension due to the severely elevated systolic pressure, which poses the most risk.
Dangers of 157/97 Blood Pressure
Over time, pressure this high can overstrain the heart and arteries, resulting in:
Heart attack and stroke
High blood pressure damages arteries and makes them more prone to dangerous plaque buildup. This can limit or block blood flow, leading to heart attack or stroke.
Aneurysms
Increased pressure can cause arterial walls to weaken and bulge, forming an aneurysm. A ruptured aneurysm causes dangerous internal bleeding.
Heart failure
The extra workload from pumping against high pressure can wear out the heart muscle. This causes heart failure where the heart has difficulty meeting the body’s needs.
Dementia
Hypertension impacts arteries supplying blood to the brain. This disturbance is linked to vascular dementia and cognitive decline.
Lifestyle Changes for 157/97 Blood Pressure
Non-drug approaches to lower mildly or moderately elevated blood pressure include:
Lose extra weight
Excess body weight strains the circulatory system. Losing just 10 lbs can notably reduce blood pressure.
Exercise regularly
Aerobic activity and strength training helps lower bp. Aim for at least 150 minutes per week of moderate exercise.
Healthy diet
Eat diets rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean protein. Limit sodium, saturated fat, sweets and alcohol.
Limit stress
Chronic stress and anger contribute to hypertension. Try stress reducing techniques like yoga, meditation and deep breathing.
When Medications Are Necessary
With a reading of 157/97, medication will likely be necessary in addition to lifestyle changes. Often, treatment involves a combination of blood pressure medications from different drug classes.
Diuretics
Diuretics help the kidneys flush out excess fluid and sodium to reduce blood volume. Chlorthalidone and indapamide are preferred choices.
ACE inhibitors
ACE inhibitors prevent angiotensin production to open blood vessels and lower pressure. Examples include lisinopril, ramipril and enalapril.
ARBs
Angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs) inhibit a hormone that narrows blood vessels, allowing them to relax and decrease pressure. Losartan and valsartan are common ARBs.
Calcium channel blockers
CCBs like amlodipine block calcium from entering heart and blood vessel cells to inhibit contraction. This widens blood vessels.
How Low Should 157/97 Blood Pressure Go?
A reading of 157/97 is dangerously high and requires prompt treatment. In uncomplicated cases, the goal is to lower blood pressure to under 130/80 mm Hg while minimizing medication side effects.
In patients who also have diabetes or chronic kidney disease, the target is under 130/80 as well. Tighter control below 120/80 may be recommended if these conditions coexist with high blood pressure.
Monitoring Treated High Blood Pressure
Have your blood pressure evaluated about every 1-3 months while adjusting medications to reach target levels. Once controlled, follow-up every 3-6 months to ensure continued success.
Use a home blood pressure monitor to check more frequently between office visits. Keep records to show your doctor.
Immediately report severely high readings over 180/120 that don’t improve with rest. Ongoing spikes require prompt medical attention and medication adjustments.
Outlook for High Blood Pressure
Hypertension is often controllable with the right medications and lifestyle adjustments tailored to your needs and preferences by your healthcare provider. Over time, blood pressure should drop to safer levels and your risk of complications will substantially decrease.
While a reading of 157/97 is alarming, through proper long-term management the prognosis for living a full, healthy life is good.
FAQs
Is a blood pressure of 157/97 dangerous?
Yes, 157/97 is considered stage 2 hypertension, putting you at high risk of heart attack, stroke, aneurysms, heart failure, and cognitive decline without treatment to lower your blood pressure.
What lifestyle changes can help lower my blood pressure?
Losing excess weight, increasing physical activity, eating healthier, and managing stress can help lower mildly to moderately high blood pressure readings. But with a reading of 157/97, medications are also likely necessary.
What medications are used to treat high blood pressure?
Common medications used alone or together to lower blood pressure include diuretics, ACE inhibitors, ARBs, and calcium channel blockers. Your doctor will tailor treatment to your specific needs.
How low should my blood pressure be on medications?
The goal is to lower your blood pressure to under 130/80 mm Hg. Tighter control under 120/80 may be recommended if you also have conditions like diabetes or chronic kidney disease.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.
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