Understanding 177/107 Blood Pressure Readings
Blood pressure readings are presented with two numbers, such as 117/76 mm Hg. The first number is the systolic pressure, which measures pressure in the arteries when the heart beats. The second number is the diastolic pressure, measuring pressure between heartbeats. A reading of 177/107 mm Hg indicates stage 2 hypertension.
Breaking Down the Numbers
In a reading of 177/107:
- 177 is the systolic pressure, or the pressure when the heart contracts
- 107 is the diastolic pressure, or the pressure when the heart relaxes
- Both numbers are elevated, indicating hypertension
Systolic Blood Pressure
The 177 systolic measurement indicates stage 2 hypertension. Normal systolic pressure is less than 120 mm Hg. Systolic readings between 120-129 mm Hg are considered elevated. 130-139 mm Hg indicates stage 1 hypertension, while 140 mm Hg or higher is stage 2.
Diastolic Blood Pressure
The diastolic reading of 107 mm Hg is also in the stage 2 hypertension range. Normal diastolic pressure is less than 80 mm Hg. Readings of 80-89 mm Hg are elevated, with 90-99 mm Hg being stage 1 hypertension. Diastolic pressure of 100 mm Hg or more indicates stage 2 hypertension.
Dangers of 177/107 Blood Pressure
Chronically elevated blood pressure at 177/107 poses serious health risks including:
Heart Attack and Stroke
The strain of high blood pressure damages arteries and makes plaque buildup more likely. This increases risk of heart attack and stroke.
Aneurysms
Increased pressure can cause aneurysms, or bulging spots, in weakened blood vessel walls. Aneurysms are prone to rupturing.
Heart Failure
When the heart has to pump against high pressure, its muscles can weaken over time. This can lead to heart failure.
Kidney Damage
The kidneys filter excess fluid to lower blood pressure. Over time, high blood pressure can cause kidney impairment, failure, or scarring.
Vision Loss
High pressure damages the delicate blood vessels in the eyes, which can result in vision problems or loss.
Cognitive Decline
Research shows high blood pressure, especially in mid-life, is linked with cognitive impairment and dementia risk later in life.
Causes of 177/107 Blood Pressure
Some factors that can contribute to severely high blood pressure like 177/107 include:
Being Overweight
Excess body weight puts added strain on the heart and blood vessels, increasing pressure.
Physical Inactivity
Lack of exercise causes arteries to become stiffer, making pressure rise.
Unhealthy Diet
Diets high in sodium, saturated fat, and sugar and low in potassium drive up blood pressure.
Excess Alcohol
Drinking more than moderate amounts of alcohol regularly can raise blood pressure over time.
Smoking
Chemicals in tobacco smoke damage arteries and cause a temporary spike in blood pressure.
Sleep Apnea
This disorder that causes breathing interruptions during sleep is linked to hypertension.
Stress
Chronic stress and anxiety activate the sympathetic nervous system, leading to constricted blood vessels and higher pressure.
Medications
Corticosteroids, birth control, NSAIDs, and some antidepressants may increase blood pressure as a side effect.
Underlying Conditions
Medical issues like kidney disease, thyroid disorder, Cushing's syndrome, and others can sometimes cause hypertension.
Lifestyle Changes to Lower 177/107 Blood Pressure
Making these lifestyle modifications can help lower blood pressure from the hypertensive range of 177/107:
Lose Excess Weight
Slimming down even 5-10% of body weight can significantly reduce blood pressure in overweight individuals.
Exercise Regularly
Aim for 150 minutes per week of moderate activity like brisk walking or gentle cycling to improve heart health.
Cut Sodium Intake
Limit sodium to 1500-2300 mg daily to help blood vessels relax and reduce pressure.
Follow DASH Diet
This meal plan low in salt and rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean protein, nuts, and healthy fats is proven to lower blood pressure.
Limit Alcohol
Drink alcohol in moderation, no more than 1 drink per day for women or 2 for men.
Increase Potassium
Eating potassium-rich foods like bananas, potatoes, spinach, yogurt, fish, and beans helps balance sodium in the blood.
Quit Smoking
Kicking the smoking habit protects blood vessels and quickly lowers blood pressure.
Reduce Stress
Try relaxing practices like meditation, yoga, tai chi, deep breathing, or massage to decrease stress hormones.
Improve Sleep
Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep per night to support heart health and normal blood pressure variation.
Medical Treatments for 177/107 Blood Pressure
If lifestyle changes do not lower blood pressure sufficiently, doctors may prescribe medications like:
ACE inhibitors
These widen blood vessels by blocking angiotensin-converting enzyme to improve blood flow.
Angiotensin II receptor blockers
This medication relaxes blood vessels by blocking the effects of angiotensin II.
Calcium channel blockers
These prevent calcium from entering heart and blood vessel cells to allow them to relax.
Diuretics
Also called "water pills", diuretics remove excess fluid and sodium to reduce blood volume.
Beta blockers
They reduce blood pressure by slowing heart rate and decreasing the heart's workload.
Alpha blockers
These prevent nerve signals that would constrict blood vessels, allowing improved blood flow.
Nerve stimulators
Devices that use electrical impulses targeted at specific nerves help regulate nervous system signals affecting blood pressure.
When to Seek Emergency Treatment for 177/107
Extremely high blood pressure requires urgent medical care. Seek emergency help for:
- Blood pressure over 180/120 along with confusion, chest pain, shortness of breath, or bleeding
- Sudden spike in blood pressure with headaches, nausea, vomiting, anxiety, nosebleeds, or dizziness
- Hypertension with neurological changes like numbness, vision issues, difficulty speaking
These signs may indicate a hypertensive emergency that could lead to a stroke, heart attack, or other life-threatening complications if not treated immediately.
Outlook for Controlling 177/107 Blood Pressure
A reading of 177/107 is dangerously high and requires prompt medical attention and treatment. Lowering blood pressure to a safer range is possible through medications and lifestyle changes. With proper management under a doctor's care, the risks from hypertension can be well controlled.
FAQs
What do the numbers 177/107 mean in a blood pressure reading?
177 is the systolic pressure, which measures pressure in the arteries when the heart beats. 107 is the diastolic pressure, measuring pressure between heartbeats. Both indicate stage 2 hypertension.
What are the risks associated with 177/107 blood pressure?
Risks include heart attack, stroke, aneurysms, heart failure, kidney damage, vision loss, and cognitive decline. High blood pressure damages arteries and organs.
What causes blood pressure to reach 177/107?
Common causes include obesity, inactivity, unhealthy diet, excess alcohol, smoking, sleep apnea, stress, certain medications, and underlying medical conditions.
How can I lower blood pressure from 177/107?
Lifestyle changes like weight loss, exercise, a healthy diet, stress reduction, and limiting alcohol and sodium can lower blood pressure. Medications like ACE inhibitors or diuretics may also be needed.
When should I seek emergency care for high blood pressure?
Seek emergency help if your blood pressure is over 180/120 or you have symptoms like chest pain, shortness of breath, numbness, or bleeding along with severely elevated pressure.
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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