Understanding the Risks and Treatment of 142/106 Blood Pressure

Understanding 142/106 Blood Pressure Readings

Blood pressure readings consist of two numberssystolic pressure and diastolic pressure. 142/106 blood pressure means a systolic reading of 142 mm Hg and a diastolic reading of 106 mm Hg. But what do these numbers mean for your health?

Systolic Blood Pressure

The first number in a blood pressure reading is the systolic pressure, or the pressure in the arteries when the heart beats and pushes blood through the circulatory system. A measurement of 142 mm Hg for systolic pressure is considered stage 2 hypertension.

Stage 2 hypertension indicates a more serious health concern compared to lower blood pressure ranges. Systolic readings at this level put greater strain on the heart and arteries over time, increasing the risk for health problems if not treated.

Diastolic Blood Pressure

The second number in a blood pressure reading is the diastolic pressure, or the pressure in the arteries between heartbeats as the heart relaxes and refills with blood. A measurement of 106 mm Hg for diastolic pressure also falls into the stage 2 hypertension range.

Higher diastolic pressure suggests the arteries remain constricted when the heart is at rest. Over time, this added pressure taxes the cardiovascular system and damages artery walls and organs like the heart, brain, kidneys and eyes.

Risks of 142/106 Blood Pressure

The combination of a systolic reading of 142 mm Hg and a diastolic reading of 106 Hg meets the criteria for stage 2 hypertension. This indicates a severe elevation of blood pressure requiring prompt medical treatment to prevent negative health outcomes.

Heart Disease and Stroke

High blood pressure is a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease. Uncontrolled hypertension can cause plaque buildup in the arteries over time, leading to conditions like coronary artery disease, heart attack, enlarged heart, heart failure, aortic dissection, and stroke.

According to research, the risk of cardiovascular-related death doubles with every 20 mm Hg increase in systolic blood pressure above 115 mm Hg. At 142 mm Hg, the heightened danger is significant.

Kidney Damage

The kidneys act as filters for the circulatory system. But over time, elevated blood pressure associated with hypertension takes a toll on these organs. High pressure damages the arteries around the kidneys and impairs their ability to function properly.

Without treatment, patients with stage 2 hypertension often develop chronic kidney disease and are at higher risk for total kidney failure. Proper blood pressure management preserves kidney health and function.

Vision Loss

Uncontrolled high blood pressure can also lead to damage in the delicate blood vessels supplying the retina at the back of the eye. This damage can result in retinopathy, choroidopathy, optic neuropathy and retinal vein occlusionconditions that impair vision and threaten sight.

Research shows higher systolic and diastolic blood pressure measurements correlate with a greater incidence of retinal damage and visual field loss over time. Again, achieving better blood pressure control minimizes these risks.

Treatment for 142/106 Blood Pressure

The first line of treatment for stage 2 hypertension involves lifestyle changes like losing excess weight, eating healthier, exercising more, managing stress, and restricting alcohol and salt intake. However, most patients require medication to lower their blood pressure into a healthier range.

Medications

Doctors often prescribe a combination of blood pressure medications targeting different mechanisms of action in the body to lower readings. Common drug classes include diuretics, ACE inhibitors, ARBs, beta-blockers, and calcium channel blockers.

The goal is to find the right medication or combination of medications that effectively brings levels below 140/90 mm Hg. For some patients, three or four medications are needed to properly control blood pressure.

Home Monitoring

Home blood pressure monitoring helps patients track their treatment progress and response. Keeping a log of twice-daily readings gives doctors key insights when adjusting medications and doses to achieve better control.

Home monitoring also empowers patients, allowing them to catch spikes and address issues early on. This protects against organ damage compared to only checking readings every few months at the doctors office.

Follow-Up Visits

Even after identifying an effective treatment plan, follow-up doctor visits remain crucial. Blood pressure can fluctuate over time, meaning medications and doses may need adjustment. Scheduling regular appointments enables continuation of care.

Doctors also run tests during follow-up visits to check for early signs of organ damage and other associated health concerns. They can then modify treatment to address any issues uncovered.

The combined systolic blood pressure reading of 142 mm Hg and diastolic pressure of 106 mm Hg in a 142/106 blood pressure level indicates stage 2 hypertension. Thankfully, significant lifestyle changes and medications can improve outcomes, especially when treatment starts early.

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.