Understanding High Blood Pressure Readings of 142/108 mmHg

Understanding 142 108 Blood Pressure Readings

Blood pressure readings are made up of two numbers, systolic and diastolic pressure. 142 108 refers to a blood pressure reading where the systolic pressure is 142 mmHg and the diastolic pressure is 108 mmHg. This blood pressure reading falls into the category of stage 2 hypertension, which is considered high and requires treatment to lower and control it.

What Do the Numbers 142 and 108 Mean?

Blood pressure is measured in millimeters of mercury (mmHg) and is written with the systolic pressure first, followed by the diastolic pressure. For example, a blood pressure reading of 142/108 mmHg:

• 142 is the systolic pressure, which represents the pressure in the arteries when the heart contracts and pushes blood through the circulatory system.
• 108 is the diastolic pressure, which represents the pressure in the arteries when the heart relaxes between beats.

A blood pressure reading of 142/108 mmHg indicates:

• The systolic pressure is 142 mmHg, which is high. Normal systolic pressure is less than 120 mmHg.
• The diastolic pressure is 108 mmHg, which is also high. Normal diastolic pressure is less than 80 mmHg.

A blood pressure reading this high is cause for concern, as it signifies stage 2 hypertension that requires prompt treatment to prevent complications.

Blood Pressure Classifications

Blood pressure ranges are classified into different categories based on the severity:

• Normal: Less than 120/80 mmHg
• Elevated: 120-129/Less than 80 mmHg
• Stage 1 hypertension: 130-139/80-89 mmHg
• Stage 2 hypertension: 140/90 mmHg or higher

A reading of 142/108 mmHg falls into the stage 2 hypertension range. Stage 2 hypertension signifies a more serious health concern than prehypertension or stage 1 hypertension.

Dangers of Stage 2 Hypertension

Having a blood pressure in the stage 2 range is dangerous because it puts strain on the heart and blood vessels. Some risks associated with stage 2 hypertension include:

• Heart attack
• Stroke
• Kidney damage or failure
• Vision loss
• Peripheral artery disease
• Pulmonary edema

Stage 2 hypertension requires prompt medical treatment to lower your blood pressure and reduce these health risks. Treatment typically involves a combination of blood pressure medications, lifestyle changes like diet and exercise, and close monitoring by your doctor.

Causes of High Blood Pressure

There are a variety of factors that can contribute to high blood pressure like a reading of 142/108 mmHg. Common causes include:

Being Overweight/Obesity

Carrying excess weight puts extra strain on the heart to pump blood throughout the body. Losing even 10 pounds can help lower elevated blood pressure in some overweight individuals.

Physical Inactivity

Being sedentary can cause blood pressure to creep up over time. Regular physical activity helps lower blood pressure by keeping your heart and blood vessels in good condition.

Unhealthy Diet

Eating foods high in sodium, fat, and calories can lead to high blood pressure. Limiting sodium, saturated fat, sugar, and alcohol while eating more fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains is important.

Excessive Alcohol Use

Drinking more than moderate amounts of alcohol regularly can increase blood pressure over time. Moderation is defined as no more than 2 drinks per day for men and 1 drink per day for women.

Tobacco Use

Chemicals in tobacco can damage blood vessels. Smoking raises blood pressure and puts stress on the heart. Quitting smoking is one of the best things you can do for your heart health.

Chronic Stress

Ongoing stress hormones in the body can lead to constriction of blood vessels and fluid retention, both of which increase blood pressure. Managing stress through relaxation techniques helps lower blood pressure.

Certain Medications

Medications like oral contraceptives, decongestants, steroids, and NSAIDs can raise blood pressure as a side effect in some people. Talk to your doctor about alternative options if you suspect a medication is raising your blood pressure.

Underlying Conditions

Sometimes high blood pressure can be caused by other medical conditions like sleep apnea, thyroid issues, kidney disease, or diabetes. Getting evaluated for these types of conditions may be necessary.

Family History

If you have a family history of hypertension, you are more likely to develop it yourself. Genetics play a role in high blood pressure.

Older Age

The risk of high blood pressure increases naturally as we age. Blood vessels stiffen over time. Monitoring your blood pressure and controlling it early helps reduce the impact of age.

Treatment for 142 108 Blood Pressure

Bringing down a blood pressure as high as 142/108 mmHg requires prompt treatment. Typical treatment strategies include:

Medication

Most people with a blood pressure this high will need blood pressure lowering medication. Commonly prescribed medications include ACE inhibitors, ARBs, beta blockers, calcium channel blockers, and diuretics. Your doctor will determine the best medication or combination for you based on your health profile.

Lifestyle Changes

Making certain lifestyle modifications can complement your medication treatment plan. This includes losing weight, eating a heart-healthy diet, cutting back on sodium and alcohol, exercising regularly, stopping smoking, and reducing stress.

Close Monitoring

You will need follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider to closely monitor your blood pressure, medications, and symptoms. Ongoing adjustments to treatment may be necessary to get your blood pressure controlled.

Preventing High Blood Pressure

Making healthy lifestyle choices can help prevent your blood pressure from rising into the high range in the first place. Try these prevention tips:

• Exercise aerobically for 30 minutes most days of the week
• Maintain a healthy body weight
• Eat a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean protein
• Limit sodium, saturated fat, sugar and alcohol intake
• Manage stress through relaxing activities
• Don't smoke and avoid secondhand smoke
• Have regular visits with your healthcare provider to monitor your blood pressure

Following these guidelines can help keep your blood pressure in the healthy range and avoid the need for medication treatment down the road.

When to See a Doctor

If you have had any blood pressure readings in the stage 2 hypertension range, it is important to see your doctor right away for evaluation and treatment. A reading of 142/108 mmHg should not be ignored.

See your doctor promptly if you experience any possible symptoms of hypertension, like:

• Headaches
• Shortness of breath
• Nosebleeds
• Dizziness
• Vision changes
• Chest pain

Getting high blood pressure under control is critical for preserving your long-term health and preventing damage to your heart, brain, kidneys and circulatory system. Following your doctor's treatment recommendations is key, along with adopting a healthy lifestyle.

Outlook for Stage 2 Hypertension

The outlook for stage 2 hypertension depends greatly on how consistently a treatment plan is followed. With proper medication, lifestyle changes, and medical supervision, many people with stage 2 high blood pressure can lower their numbers to a healthy range.

However, if high blood pressure goes uncontrolled for a long period of time, the risks of serious complications like stroke, heart attack, and kidney failure increase. Permanent organ damage can occur. That's why promptly lowering blood pressure is so important.

By partnering closely with your doctor and following treatment recommendations, you can successfully control stage 2 high blood pressure. This involves commitment to regular check-ups, medications, and lifestyle improvements. But getting your blood pressure down will be worthwhile for your future health and well-being.

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.