Understanding 164 Over 104 Blood Pressure
Blood pressure is an important health indicator that can provide insight into the risk for certain cardiovascular conditions. The numbers, like 164 over 104, specifically refer to systolic and diastolic pressure readings.
What Do the Numbers Mean?
Blood pressure readings consist of two numbers, measured in millimeters of mercury (mm Hg). The top number is the systolic pressure, which measures the pressure in the arteries when the heart beats. The bottom number is the diastolic pressure, which measures the pressure in the arteries between heartbeats.
For 164 over 104 blood pressure:
- 164 refers to the systolic pressure
- 104 refers to the diastolic pressure
Classification of Hypertension
Blood pressure classifications provide a standardized way to describe the severity of hypertension based on the pressure readings. 164 over 104 blood pressure would be classified as stage 2 hypertension.
The blood pressure classifications are:
- Normal: Less than 120/80 mm Hg
- Elevated: 120-129/Less than 80 mm Hg
- Stage 1 Hypertension: 130-139/80-89 mm Hg
- Stage 2 Hypertension: 140/90 mm Hg or higher (140-179/90-109 mm Hg)
- Hypertensive Crisis: Higher than 180/110 mm Hg
Health Risks of 164 Over 104 Blood Pressure
Sustained high blood pressure at 164/104 mm Hg level carries substantial cardiovascular health risks if not treated and managed properly.
Heart Disease and Stroke
High blood pressure stresses the walls of the arteries over time, making them stiffer and less elastic. This can lead to artery and heart damage, as well as clot formation. If a blood clot blocks blood flow to the heart it causes a heart attack. If it blocks flow to the brain it causes a stroke.
Aneurysms
The increased pressure can also cause arteries to lose structural integrity and bulge or balloon out at weak spots, forming an aneurysm. Aneurysms are dangerous because they can rupture and cause severe bleeding.
Heart Failure
The extra workload from pumping against high pressure can cause the heart to enlarge and weaken over time. This can lead to heart failure, which is an inability of the heart to pump enough blood and oxygen to meet the body's needs.
Kidney Damage
The small blood vessels in the kidneys can become damaged from high blood pressure. This reduces the kidneys' ability to adequately filter waste out of the blood. Kidney disease and failure can result.
Treatment for 164 Over 104 Blood Pressure
Bringing high blood pressure under control is important to reduce the risk of associated health complications. Treatment typically involves medications plus lifestyle changes.
Blood Pressure Medications
There are many types of blood pressure medications that work in different ways to lower pressure. Some common options include:
- Diuretics - help remove excess fluid and sodium to reduce blood volume
- ACE inhibitors - block effects of hormone to relax and open up blood vessels
- Beta blockers - reduce how forcefully the heart pumps to lower pressure
- Calcium channel blockers - prevent calcium from entering cells of blood vessels to promote relaxation
Lifestyle Changes
Making healthy lifestyle modifications can also significantly help lower blood pressure. These include:
- Losing excess weight
- Eating a balanced diet high in fruits and vegetables
- Reducing sodium intake
- Exercising regularly
- Quitting smoking and limiting alcohol intake
- Trying stress reduction techniques
Monitoring and Follow-Up
It is critical to follow-up regularly with a healthcare provider to assess response to hypertension treatment. This will involve home and in-office blood pressure checks to determine if readings are lowering to safer levels.
Lifestyle adjustments and medications may need to be altered until blood pressure is controlled, which greatly reduces risk of complications.
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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