What Does a 161 Over 95 Blood Pressure Reading Mean?

Understanding a 161 Over 95 Blood Pressure Reading

Blood pressure readings are comprised of two numbers - systolic pressure (the top number) and diastolic pressure (the bottom number). A reading of 161 over 95 indicates a systolic reading of 161 mmHg and a diastolic reading of 95 mmHg. But what does this blood pressure level mean for your health?

Blood Pressure Ranges

Here is a quick guide to different blood pressure ranges:

• Normal: Less than 120/80 mmHg
• Elevated: 120-129/Less than 80 mmHg
• Stage 1 Hypertension: 130-139/80-89 mmHg
• Stage 2 Hypertension: 140/90 mmHg or higher

A reading of 161/95 mmHg falls into the range of stage 2 hypertension. Stage 2 hypertension is considered more serious than stage 1 and requires prompt medical treatment to bring levels down.

Understanding Systolic Readings

The systolic reading refers to the pressure in your blood vessels when the heart contracts and pumps blood. A reading of 161 mmHg indicates significantly elevated systolic pressure:

• Normal systolic: Less than 120 mmHg
• Elevated systolic: 120-129 mmHg
• Stage 1 hypertension: 130-139 mmHg
• Stage 2 hypertension: 140 mmHg or higher

A systolic pressure of 161 mmHg is considered stage 2 hypertension. Stage 2 often requires medication in addition to lifestyle changes to get systolic levels back down below 140 mmHg.

Understanding Diastolic Readings

The diastolic reading refers to the pressure in your vessels when the heart is resting between beats. A reading of 95 mmHg indicates elevated diastolic pressure:

• Normal diastolic: Less than 80 mmHg
• Elevated diastolic: 80-89 mmHg
• Stage 1 diastolic: 90-99 mmHg
• Stage 2 diastolic: 100 mmHg or higher

A diastolic pressure of 95 mmHg falls into the stage 1 range. Lifestyle adjustments like diet, exercise and stress management can often help normalize stage 1 diastolic hypertension.

Risks of 161/95 Blood Pressure

Untreated high blood pressure, especially at stage 2 levels, can seriously damage your health over time. Risks associated with a consistent reading around 161/95 mmHg include:

Heart disease and heart attack

The extra force of blood straining against arteries damages blood vessels. This can cause buildup of plaque and hardening of arteries, raising heart attack risk.

Stroke

Extreme pressure can cause arteries in the brain to become weak and rupture. This can cut off blood flow and oxygen to the brain resulting in stroke.

Kidney damage

The kidneys act as filters for the blood. High pressure damages the blood vessels in the kidneys leading to impaired kidney function.

Vision loss

High pressure can strain and damage the small blood vessels supplying the retina, affecting vision.

Cognitive decline

Hypertension impacts circulation to the brain, increasing risks of vascular dementia and cognitive impairment.

The higher your blood pressure and the longer it stays elevated, the greater your risks of these complications. That's why getting a 161/95 reading down is so important.

Lifestyle Changes for 161/95 Blood Pressure

If you have a 161/95 reading, simple lifestyle adjustments should be your first line of treatment. Try these natural ways to lower your blood pressure:

Lose extra weight

Excess body weight strains the heart and blood vessels. Losing just 10 lbs can help slash blood pressure.

Exercise regularly

Aim for 150 minutes per week of moderate activity like brisk walking to improve circulation.

Eat a heart-healthy diet

Focus on fruits, veggies, whole grains, lean protein and healthy fats while limiting sodium, sugar and processed foods.

Limit alcohol

Drink alcohol in moderation, if at all, as excess intake raises blood pressure.

Quit smoking

Smoking damages blood vessels and causes plaque buildup. Kicking the habit can quickly lower pressure.

Reduce stress

Chronic stress leads to elevated stress hormones and inflammation. Relaxation practices like meditation help unwind.

These changes can have a major impact on blood pressure. However, if lifestyle adjustments alone don't bring your 161/95 reading down within a few months, medication may also be needed.

Medical Treatment for 161/95 Blood Pressure

With a stage 2 systolic pressure of 161 mmHg, it's likely your doctor will prescribe blood pressure medication rather than just recommending lifestyle changes alone. Here are some of the types of medications that may be used:

ACE inhibitors

These widen blood vessels to improve blood flow. Examples include lisinopril, ramipril and enalapril.

ARBs

Angiotensin receptor blockers prevent blood vessels from narrowing. Examples include losartan, valsartan and candesartan.

Beta-blockers

They reduce how hard the heart works and how narrow blood vessels become. Examples include atenolol and metoprolol.

Calcium channel blockers

These allow blood vessels to relax and widen. Examples include amlodipine, diltiazem and nifedipine.

Diuretics may also be used to reduce fluid volume in the body and lower pressure. Your doctor will determine the best medication or combination for your situation.

When to Seek Emergency Treatment for High Blood Pressure

Extremely high systolic blood pressure above 180 mmHg and/or diastolic pressure above 120 mmHg may require emergency medical treatment. Seek help immediately if you experience:

• Chest pain
• Severe headache
• Shortness of breath
• Blurry vision
• Dizziness or fainting
• Confusion
• Difficulty speaking

These can indicate a hypertensive crisis where pressure is so high it injures organs like the heart, brain, kidneys and eyes. Left untreated, a hypertensive crisis can lead to heart attack, stroke, permanent organ damage or even death.

Home Remedies to Lower Blood Pressure

Along with any medical treatments, natural remedies can also help control your blood pressure. Some to try include:

Beet juice

Drinking beet juice can boost nitric oxide levels and widen blood vessels for better circulation.

Garlic

Garlic acts as a natural blood thinner and improves endothelial function.

Flaxseed

The ALA omega-3s in flax help reduce inflammation for better vessel health.

Magnesium and potassium supplements

These essential minerals help relax blood vessel walls.

Celery seed extract

Celery seed contains compounds that relax smooth muscle tissue in vessel walls.

Breathing exercises

Slow, deep breathing activates the parasympathetic nervous system to lower stress hormones.

Supplements for Lowering Blood Pressure

Certain natural supplements may also help support healthy blood pressure levels when used along with other lifestyle and medical treatments:

Fish oil

The omega-3s EPA and DHA in fish oil reduce inflammation and improve vessel flexibility.

CoQ10

This powerful antioxidant benefits heart health and blood pressure regulation.

Vitamin C

Vitamin C improves nitric oxide levels to dilate blood vessels.

Garlic extract

Aged garlic extract promotes circulation and healthy blood flow.

Nattokinase

This enzyme derived from fermented soy has anti-clotting effects in the blood.

Cocoa flavanols

Flavanols in cocoa improve nitric oxide levels for flexible vessels.

Always check with your doctor before taking supplements, especially when on medication.

When to See Your Doctor

If you have a reading around 161/95 mmHg, follow up with your primary care doctor right away. You may need to begin blood pressure medication to reduce your risks of complications.

Monitoring your levels daily at home can help you track your numbers to see if lifestyle changes are working. Follow your doctor's advice on medication usage and recheck your pressure frequently.

While a reading of 161/95 mmHg is cause for concern, know that high blood pressure is very treatable. With proper management, you can lower your risk and live a full, healthy life.

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.