Understanding 137 100 BP Hypertension Readings
Blood pressure readings consist of two numbers - the systolic pressure (top number) and the diastolic pressure (bottom number). A reading of 137 100 BP indicates Stage 2 hypertension, considered a serious level requiring prompt medical treatment to reduce health risks.
Breaking Down 137 100 Blood Pressure
The first number in a blood pressure reading is the systolic pressure, which measures the force of blood against artery walls when the heart beats. 137 mmHg or millimeters of mercury refers to the systolic measurement.
The second, lower number signifies the diastolic pressure - the pressure between heart beats while the heart is relaxed and refilling with blood. 100 mmHg refers to the diastolic measurement.
Together, a reading of 137 over 100 is verbally stated as "137 over 100" or simply "137 100 BP."
Blood Pressure Ranges & Classifications
The American Heart Association categorizes blood pressure numbers into ranges to classify hypertension severity:
- Normal: less than 120/80 mmHg
- Elevated: 120-129/<80 mmHg
- Stage 1 Hypertension: 130-139/80-89 mmHg
- Stage 2 Hypertension: 140/90 mmHg or higher
A blood pressure of 137 100 falls into the Stage 2 range, considered the most serious diagnosis requiring rapid medical treatment.
Health Risks of 137 100 BP Readings
The higher your blood pressure numbers, the greater your risk of developing serious medical complications from hypertension. Possible health impacts include:
Heart Disease & Heart Attack
Constant strain on the cardiovascular system from intense blood pressure causes artery walls to weaken and accumulate plaque over time. This can lead blood clots, restricted blood flow to the heart, or complete artery blockages - triggering heart attack or failure.
Stroke
Excessively high pressure can suddenly sever or rupture blood vessels in the brain. Without oxygen, brain cells swiftly die, resulting in brain damage or disability from stroke.
Kidney Damage
The delicate blood vessels and filtration units within the kidneys are also vulnerable to extremely high pressures. Kidney damage reduces the organ's ability to properly filter waste, fluid, and electrolytes.
Vision Loss
Hypertension strains the blood vessels supplying oxygen and nutrients to the retina at the back of the eye. Retinal bleeding or detachment can lead blindness if left uncontrolled.
Sexual Dysfunction
Restricted blood circulation can limit erectile function in men. Women may also experience lowered arousal and natural vaginal lubrication from hypertension obstructing blood flow.
Aneurysms
An aneurysm involves a weakened area of an artery wall ballooning out from intense pressure. Ruptured brain aneurysms lead to dangerous internal bleeding, organ damage, and high mortality rates.
Treatment Goals for 137 100 BP
Due to associated health hazards, the target goal is to lower stage 2 hypertension readings below 140/90 mmHg. However, greater reductions closer to an ideal reading of 120/80 mmHg further minimizes risks.
Treatment focuses on rapidly reigning in severely elevated systolic pressure (top number) below 140, while also addressing diastolic pressure (lower number).
Immediate vs Gradual Blood Pressure Reduction
It was once thought that very high blood pressure required gradual treatment to avoid complications from a sudden pressure drop. However, research now favors immediate intervention for readings 180/120 mmHg.
For mildly high baseline readings around 137 100 mmHg, providers still recommend a steady progression of medication intensification and lifestyle change for smooth reductions of around 10-15% every 1-2 months.
Systolic vs Diastolic Hypertension
Isolated systolic hypertension involves an elevated systolic (top) number with normal diastolic pressure, usually seen in older adults as arteries stiffen over time. This type still carries health risks requiring treatment.
In 137 100 BP, both systolic and diastolic numbers are abnormally high. Treating isolated diastolic hypertension is controversial, with some experts only prescribing meds for very high bottom numbers 110-115 mmHg.
Medical Treatments for 137 100 BP
The main interventions for stage 2 hypertension involve medications to lower blood pressure in combination with dietary and lifestyle changes.
Antihypertensive Medications
A variety of prescription blood pressure medications are utilized depending on factors like age, race, comorbidities, side effect risk, and medication cost/availability:
- ACE inhibitors - relax blood vessels to improve flow
- ARBs (angiotensin II receptor blockers) - blocks effects of hormone on blood vessels/fluid
- Diuretics - flush excess sodium and water from kidneys
- Beta-blockers - reduce how hard the heart pumps to lower pressure
- Calcium channel blockers - relax contracted arteries
Patients often require at least 2-3 medications from different drug classes for additive blood pressure reduction. Combining an ACE or ARB, calcium channel blocker, and diuretic is very effective.
Lifestyle Modification
Non-drug interventions are also critical for lowering hypertension long-term and rely heavily on the patient's discipline and accountability. Recommendations include:
- Low salt diet - limiting sodium optimizes diuretic effects
- Exercise - improves heart efficiency and blood vessel elasticity
- Weight loss - reduces fluid/volume-related pressure on arteries
- Stress reduction - alleviates temporary BP spikes
- tobacco/alcohol avoidance - eliminates artery constriction
Considering a 137 100 BP Diagnosis
A single reading of 137 100 does not automatically mean you have severe hypertension requiring intensive treatment.
Repeated Readings Over Time
Due to normal variability, at least 3-5 separate blood pressure measurements on different days are used to formally diagnose stage 2 hypertension. This helps determine whether 137 100 mmHg represents your typical, sustained blood pressure profile.
Out-of-Office Monitoring
Many patients experience temporary "white coat syndrome" where readings are higher in medical settings from anxiety. At-home monitoring or 24-hour ambulatory assessments better reveal daily habits influencing your true, stable blood pressure pattern.
Overall Health Profile
While a blood pressure of 137 100 mmHg unequivocally falls in the dangerously high range, risks always depend on your holistic health status. Age, genetics, comorbidities, lifestyle and other factors also guide treatment intensity.
Discuss all medical history, concerns and goals openly with your healthcare provider to determine the most appropriate hypertension management approach.
FAQs
What blood pressure range is 137/100 mmHg in?
A reading of 137/100 falls into the Stage 2 hypertension range, which is 140/90 mmHg or higher.
What health problems can 137/100 BP cause?
Risks include heart attack, stroke, kidney failure, vision loss, aneurysms, and sexual dysfunction if left uncontrolled.
Is 137/100 mmHg considered a hypertensive crisis?
No, readings above 180/120 mmHg are typically required for an emergency hypertensive crisis diagnosis requiring hospitalization.
What is the treatment target goal for 137/100 BP?
Treatment aims to gradually lower pressure below 140/90 mmHg, with further reductions toward an ideal reading of 120/80 mmHg also recommended.
Can lifestyle changes alone fix 137/100 hypertension?
Rarely - most patients require a combination of 2-3 prescription medications along with sodium reduction, stress management, exercise, and other lifestyle measures.
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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