Understanding Blood Pressure of 114/177 mmHg | Stage 2 Hypertension

Understanding Blood Pressure Readings of 114/177 mmHg

Blood pressure is an important health indicator that can provide insight into the status of your cardiovascular system. The numbers represent the pressure your blood exerts on artery walls as it circulates through your body.

Blood pressure readings are given in two numbers, such as 114/177 mmHg. The top number is your systolic pressure, which measures pressure when the heart contracts. The bottom number is your diastolic pressure, which measures pressure when the heart relaxes between beats.

A reading of 114/177 mmHg indicates stage 2 hypertension, which requires medical treatment to reduce risks to your health. Let's explore more about what these blood pressure numbers mean.

Stage 2 Hypertension

According to American Heart Association guidelines:

• Normal blood pressure is less than 120/80 mmHg
• Elevated blood pressure is 120-129/less than 80 mmHg
• Stage 1 hypertension is 130-139/80-89 mmHg
• Stage 2 hypertension is 140/90 mmHg or higher

A reading of 114/177 mmHg falls under stage 2 hypertension. Stage 2 hypertension is considered more serious and warrants medication to bring your blood pressure down.

Without treatment, persistently high blood pressure can damage arteries and organs like the heart, kidneys, eyes and brain over time. This leads to higher risk of serious conditions like heart attack, stroke, kidney failure and blindness.

Systolic Blood Pressure of 114 mmHg

The top number of 114 mmHg represents your systolic blood pressure, which is the pressure in your arteries when your heart contracts and pumps blood.

A systolic reading of 114 mmHg is considered normal and healthy. As long as your diastolic pressure is within a normal range, a systolic pressure of 114 mmHg helps ensure adequate blood flow to your body's tissues.

Your systolic pressure rises and falls throughout the day in response to stress, activity levels, diet, medications and other factors. So a single reading may not provide the full picture of your cardiovascular health.

Diastolic Blood Pressure of 177 mmHg

The bottom number of 177 mmHg refers to your diastolic pressure. This is the pressure in your arteries when your heart is relaxed between beats while refilling with blood.

A diastolic reading of 177 mmHg is considered dangerously high. Normally, diastolic pressure should remain between 60-80 mmHg.

Having a significantly elevated diastolic pressure puts extra strain on your heart as it pumps against high pressure in the arteries. Over time, this can lead to stiffening of the heart muscle or heart failure.

Risks of Untreated Stage 2 Hypertension

Without treatment, stage 2 hypertension can significantly raise your risk of serious health problems including:

• Heart attack or heart failure
• Stroke
• Kidney damage or failure
• Vision loss or blindness
• Peripheral artery disease
• Pulmonary hypertension
• Cognitive decline and dementia

According to studies, bringing high blood pressure down to 130/80 mmHg can significantly lower your risk of cardiovascular events and death. So getting your blood pressure under control should be a top priority.

Treatment for Stage 2 Hypertension

If lifestyle changes like diet, exercise and stress management are not enough to lower your blood pressure, your doctor will likely prescribe medication.

Common medications used to treat stage 2 hypertension include:

• Diuretics - Help flush out excess sodium and water to reduce blood volume
• ACE inhibitors - Relax blood vessels to improve blood flow
• Angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs) - Relax blood vessels by blocking angiotensin
• Calcium channel blockers - Relax arterial walls and open up blood vessels
• Beta blockers - Reduce how hard the heart has to work

Your doctor may need to adjust your dosage or prescribe a combination of medications to bring your blood pressure down. Be sure to take your medications as directed and monitor your blood pressure regularly.

Lifestyle Changes to Lower Blood Pressure

In addition to medication, making healthy lifestyle changes can help control your blood pressure. Try to:

• Lose weight if overweight
• Exercise regularly - 30+ minutes per day
• Follow a heart-healthy diet like the DASH diet
• Reduce sodium intake
• Limit alcohol to 1 drink per day max for women, 2 for men
• Quit smoking and vaping
• Manage stress through meditation, yoga, etc.

Making lifestyle changes along with taking your medications as prescribed gives you the best chance of getting your blood pressure down to a safe level.

Working With Your Doctor for Healthy Blood Pressure

A blood pressure reading of 114/177 mmHg indicates stage 2 hypertension that requires prompt medical treatment. Lifestyle changes combined with medication can help bring your numbers down and reduce your risk of complications.

Work closely with your doctor, take your medications, make healthy lifestyle choices, and keep up with ongoing monitoring. With commitment to your treatment plan, you can successfully control your blood pressure and protect your 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.