Understanding Blood Pressure Readings
Blood pressure refers to the force exerted by blood against the walls of arteries as it flows through the circulatory system. It is recorded as two numbers - the systolic pressure (top number) indicates the pressure in arteries when the heart contracts and diastolic pressure (bottom number) is the pressure in arteries when the heart relaxes between beats.
Normal and High Blood Pressure
Normal blood pressure is less than 120/80 mmHg. A reading between 120-129/ under 80 mmHg is elevated blood pressure. High blood pressure or hypertension is persistently elevated readings of 130/80 mmHg or higher.
Measuring Blood Pressure
Blood pressure fluctuates throughout the day. It is best measured when seated comfortably after 5 minutes rest using a calibrated arm cuff device. Multiple readings give a more accurate picture of one's typical blood pressure.
Diagnosing and Staging Hypertension
Hypertension is diagnosed when repeated high blood pressure readings are noted. Based on how high the top and bottom numbers are, hypertension is classified into stages:
Stages of High Blood Pressure
- Stage 1: Systolic between 130-139 or diastolic 80-89 mmHg
- Stage 2: Systolic at least 140 or diastolic at least 90 mmHg
- Hypertensive crisis: Top number over 180 and/or bottom number over 120 mmHg
Assessing Overall Cardiovascular Risk
Along with the blood pressure levels and hypertension stage, doctors also consider other risk factors like cholesterol, diabetes, obesity, family history, ethnicity, lifestyle habits and age for evaluating overall cardiovascular disease risk profile.
Examining the Implications of a Blood Pressure Reading of 159 mmHg
A reading of 159/xx mmHg indicates stage 2 hypertension with severely elevated systolic pressure. The top number 159 falls in the range of 140-180 mmHg systolic blood pressure. As per hypertension classification, stage 2 requires aggressive management to lower risks of complications.
Associated Health Risks
At 159 mmHg systolic pressure, the following risks are higher:
- Heart attack or heart failure
- Kidney disease or renal failure
- Stroke
- Peripheral artery disease
- Vision loss
Necessary Lifestyle Changes
To reduce the blood pressure down from 159 mmHg level, these measures are essential:
- Following a healthy diet low in sodium, fat and alcohol
- Exercising regularly - cardio and strength training
- Quitting smoking and limiting alcohol intake
- Stress management techniques
- Aiming for healthy body weight
Medications will also be required in most people with such high systolic blood pressure.
Treatment Options for Markedly Elevated Blood Pressure
The goal is to lower blood pressure down below 140/90 mmHg and even lower in people with complications like diabetes or kidney disease. A multi-pronged approach is needed to reduce cardiovascular risks associated with significant hypertension.
1. Medications
Several classes of antihypertensive drugs are available that lower blood pressure through different mechanisms by countering the effects of hormones or dilating blood vessels. Common options include:
- Diuretics
- ACE inhibitors
- Angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs)
- Calcium channel blockers
- Beta blockers
2. Dietary and Lifestyle Changes
Non-pharmacological strategies complement drug treatment for better blood pressure control:
- Limiting sodium intake
- Following DASH diet
- Stress management with yoga/meditation
- Supplementary potassium, calcium and magnesium
- Regular physical activity
3. Device-Based Therapies
Minimally invasive procedures that use catheters or implanted devices to reduce blood pressure in resistant hypertension:
- Renal denervation therapy
- Carotid sinus stimulation
- Baroreceptor activation therapy
Lifestyle changes paired with antihypertensive medications tailored to individual needs offers the best chance of lowering markedly high blood pressure of 159 mmHg down to safer levels.
FAQs
Is a blood pressure reading of 159/95 dangerous?
Yes, a reading of 159/95 mmHg indicates stage 2 hypertension which carries high risk of cardiovascular disease, kidney failure, vision loss and other complications.
What is the best medication to lower blood pressure of 159?
Medications like ACE inhibitors, ARBs, diuretics, calcium channel blockers and others may be prescribed alone or in combinations to lower severely high blood pressure down to safe levels.
What emergency steps should I take for blood pressure of 159?
Call emergency medical care if you have symptoms like severe headaches, chest pain, difficulty breathing, irregular heartbeats etc. Lifestyle measures should start right away under medical guidance.
Can you suddenly have a blood pressure reading of 159?
A sudden spike to 159 systolic pressure can happen due to stress, certain medications, recreational drugs or existing untreated high blood pressure. Consult your doctor promptly to check for underlying issues.
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.
Add Comment