Understanding Blood Pressure Readings and Hypertension Levels

What Do Blood Pressure Numbers Mean?

Blood pressure is typically recorded as two numbers, written one above or before the other. The first, higher number is the systolic pressure, which indicates the pressure in the arteries when the heart contracts. The second, lower number is the diastolic pressure, which reflects the pressure in the arteries when the heart relaxes between beats.

For example, a blood pressure reading of 120/80 mm Hg (millimeters of mercury) means a systolic pressure of 120 and a diastolic pressure of 80. This is considered a normal blood pressure for adults.

Systolic Blood Pressure

The systolic blood pressure reading indicates the force at which your heart pumps blood into the arteries. A normal systolic pressure is less than 120 mm Hg. A reading between 120-129 mm Hg is elevated, and 130 mm Hg or higher is considered high.

Diastolic Blood Pressure

The diastolic reading reflects the pressure in the arteries between heartbeats while the heart is filling with blood. A normal diastolic pressure is less than 80 mm Hg. A reading between 80-89 mm Hg is slightly elevated, and 90 mm Hg or higher is considered high.

Categories of Hypertension

Blood pressure categories are based on the systolic and diastolic numbers. Here's how high blood pressure levels are classified in adults:

Normal Blood Pressure

Systolic: Less than 120 mm Hg
Diastolic: Less than 80 mm Hg

Elevated Blood Pressure

Systolic: 120-129 mm Hg
Diastolic: Less than 80 mm Hg

Stage 1 Hypertension

Systolic: 130-139 mm Hg
Diastolic: 80-89 mm Hg

Stage 2 Hypertension

Systolic: 140 mm Hg or higher
Diastolic: 90 mm Hg or higher

Hypertensive Crisis

Systolic: Higher than 180 mm Hg
Diastolic: Higher than 120 mm Hg

A hypertensive crisis requires immediate medical attention to help bring your blood pressure down quickly and prevent organ damage.

Health Risks of High Blood Pressure

Over time, elevated pressure can overwork and damage the heart and blood vessels, increasing the risk of serious health problems. Here's an overview of the risks associated with high blood pressure:

Heart Disease and Heart Failure

High blood pressure is a major risk factor for coronary artery disease, heart attack and heart failure. Chronic high blood pressure makes the heart work too hard, weakening it over time.

Stroke

Uncontrolled high blood pressure can lead to stroke by causing arteries in the brain to narrow and weaken over time. This can limit blood flow to the brain and cause blood clots to form.

Kidney Disease

The kidneys act as filters to remove waste from the blood. High blood pressure damages the small blood vessels in the kidneys, reducing their ability to work properly.

Vision Loss

Over time, high pressure can strain and damage blood vessels in the eyes. This can result in vision problems and loss.

Sexual Dysfunction

Uncontrolled hypertension can affect blood flow to the pelvis, contributing to erectile dysfunction in men. High blood pressure can also lower libido and sexual function in women.

Peripheral Artery Disease

Narrowing of the arteries reduces blood flow to the legs and feet, which can result in leg pain and numbness. High blood pressure is a major risk factor for PAD.

How Serious is Your Hypertension?

The higher your blood pressure and the longer it goes uncontrolled, the greater your risk of developing related health complications. Here's an overview of how serious different blood pressure ranges are:

Normal Blood Pressure

Maintaining blood pressure in the normal range is ideal. Stick with heart-healthy lifestyle habits to keep your levels in check.

Elevated Blood Pressure

Elevated pressure increases risk compared to normal levels. Make diet and lifestyle modifications to help bring your reading down.

Stage 1 Hypertension

Many people have Stage 1 hypertension but don't realize it. Start making lifestyle changes and consider medication if needed to reduce your risk.

Stage 2 Hypertension

This level is considered serious and puts you at high risk of complications. Medication and lifestyle changes are recommended to lower your pressure.

Hypertensive Crisis

This is a medical emergency. You may experience headaches, shortness of breath, nosebleeds and anxiety. Seek immediate medical treatment.

How to Reduce High Blood Pressure

Making healthy lifestyle changes can help control hypertension and lower your risk of complications. Here are some tips:

Lose Extra Weight

Excess weight strains the heart and blood vessels. Shedding extra pounds can significantly lower blood pressure.

Exercise Regularly

Aim for 30-45 minutes of moderate activity like brisk walking most days of the week to keep your heart strong.

Eat a Balanced Diet

Focus on whole grains, lean proteins, fruits and vegetables. Limit sodium, saturated fat, sugar and refined carbs.

Reduce Stress

Chronic stress and anxiety can contribute to hypertension. Make time to relax and unwind daily.

Monitor Your Blood Pressure

Keep track of your numbers with home monitoring and regular doctor visits.

Take Medications as Prescribed

If lifestyle changes alone don't lower your blood pressure enough, medications can help control hypertension.

When to See Your Doctor

Consult your physician if you have persistently elevated readings or if your blood pressure goes higher than normal. Your doctor can help determine if medication is needed to help manage your hypertension.

Seek emergency care for symptoms of a hypertensive crisis like chest pain, difficulty breathing, neurological changes and severe headaches. Extremely high blood pressure requires rapid treatment to prevent organ damage.

The Bottom Line

Blood pressure levels provide important information about your heart health and risk of complications like stroke, heart disease and kidney failure. Understanding your numbers is key for hypertension management.

Lifestyle measures like losing weight, eating healthy, exercising, reducing stress and not smoking can help control high blood pressure. But if lifestyle steps aren't enough, talk to your doctor about medications that can help you reach your target range.

Monitoring your blood pressure and taking steps to keep it within a healthy range are among the most important things you can do to take charge of your overall health.

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.