What Blood Pressure Reading of 159 mmHg Means and How to Lower It

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.

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.