Understanding 142/105 Blood Pressure Readings
Blood pressure readings consist of two numbers - the systolic pressure (top number) and the diastolic pressure (bottom number). A reading of 142/105 indicates that the systolic pressure is 142 mm Hg and the diastolic pressure is 105 mm Hg when measured.
Classifying 142/105 as Hypertension
According to guidelines, any blood pressure reading with systolic pressure between 130-139 mm Hg or diastolic pressure between 80-89 mm Hg is classified as Stage 1 hypertension. A reading of 142/105 clearly falls under Stage 2 hypertension, which is defined as having a systolic pressure of 140 mm Hg or higher or diastolic pressure of 90 mm Hg or higher.
Risks of Untreated 142/105 Blood Pressure
Sustained high blood pressure of 142/105 leads to chronic damage to blood vessels and vital organs like the heart, brain, kidneys and eyes if left untreated. This damage can manifest as:
- Heart attack or stroke
- Heart failure
- Kidney disease or failure
- Vision loss
- Cognitive impairment or dementia
What Does 142/105 Blood Pressure Mean?
A reading of 142/105 means that the force of blood pushing against the artery walls during heart contractions (systolic pressure) is very high at 142 mm Hg. The force of blood flow between heartbeats (diastolic pressure) is also severely elevated at 105 mm Hg.
The high systolic pressure places excess strain on arteries and the heart. The elevated diastolic pressure indicates arteries remain constricted, overworking the heart as blood has trouble flowing. If untreated, the heart muscle thickens leading to heart attack, stroke or failure.
Lifestyle Changes for 142/105 Blood Pressure
Making appropriate lifestyle modifications can help lower blood pressure to safer levels. Important changes include:
Losing Excess Weight
Losing even 5-10 lbs can make a significant impact on lowering blood pressure. Excess weight strains the heart by making it work harder to pump blood to more tissue. Losing weight reduces this burden.
Exercising Regularly
Getting 150 minutes per week of moderate aerobic activity like brisk walking helps lower blood pressure by keeping your heart and blood vessels in good condition. Strength training also helps.
Eating Healthy
Following diets rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean protein while restricting salt and saturated fats promote lower blood pressure. The DASH diet and Mediterranean diet provide good templates.
Reducing Sodium
Consuming no more than 1500 mg of sodium daily promotes lower blood pressure. Avoiding processed foods helps control sodium intake.
Limiting Alcohol
Drinking alcohol heavily and regularly can spike blood pressure severely. Men should limit alcohol to 1-2 drinks daily, women to 1 or less.
Medical Treatment for 142/105 Blood Pressure
Alongside lifestyle changes, most people with 142/105 blood pressure also need medicinal treatment to lower their blood pressure. Common medications prescribed include:
ACE inhibitors
ACE inhibitors like lisinopril and ramipril relax blood vessels to improve blood flow. They also reduce strain on the heart and help prevent kidney disease.
ARBs
Angiotensin receptor blockers like losartan block effects of hormones that narrow blood vessels. This lowers blood pressure.
Beta blockers
Beta blockers ease heart contractions so less blood is pumped per beat. Your heart beats slower and with less force to lower blood pressure.
Diuretics
Diuretics like chlorthalidone rid the body of excess sodium and water to relax blood vessels. This also reduces blood volume and pressure.
Other medications
Other drug classes like alpha blockers, calcium channel blockers and vasodilators may also treat resistant high blood pressure.
Self-Monitoring 142/105 Blood Pressure
Self-monitoring blood pressure at home helps you track your numbers more closely to prevent complications. Tips for better home monitoring:
- Measure at same times daily
- Ensure proper arm and body positioning
- Take multiple readings and record averages
- Compare your home monitor to your doctor's
Home monitoring also helps evaluate if medications are working or if lifestyle changes are effective. Report high numbers to your doctor promptly.
When to Seek Emergency Care
Extremely high blood pressure requires emergency medical care to prevent permanent damage. Seek emergency care if you have a reading over 180/120 mm Hg and experience:
- Chest pain
- Shortness of breath
- Changes in vision
- Dizziness or fainting
- Confusion
- Weakness or numbness
Extremely high blood pressure can indicate a hypertensive crisis with risk of imminent stroke, heart attack or failure. Call emergency services or go to an ER.
A reading of 142/105 indicates Stage 2 hypertension needing prompt medical attention and treatment. Lifestyle changes and medications are necessary to lower your blood pressure and reduce health risks.
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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