High blood pressure, or hypertension, is associated with a host of health problems, from heart attack to kidney disease. Most of the damage that high blood pressure causes happens over time, though, so if you know your pressure is higher than optimal and take steps to lower it, you can protect yourself.
At Apex Medical Center, our team takes your blood pressure every time you visit. If your reading is higher than it should be, your provider will discuss the possible reasons for it and suggest the next steps. You may need to track your blood pressure at home or have some additional tests performed, but it’s important to get your readings into a healthy range.
When your blood pressure is taken, the result is two numbers, usually read as “X amount over Y amount.” Here’s what the numbers mean.
When your heart beats, the top number is your systolic pressure, or blood pressure against the walls of your arteries.
The bottom number is your diastolic pressure, the pressure in your arteries between heartbeats.
Blood pressure readings are categorized in four ways:
That may still be confusing so here are a couple of samples:
If your blood pressure is 130 over 80, you fall into high blood pressure, stage 1. Even though the bottom number is in the normal range.
Similarly, if your reading is 120 over 90, it’s categorized as high blood pressure, stage 2. The top number is normal, but the bottom number is in stage 2.
In other words, both numbers matter.
Normal is your goal. Elevated blood pressure means that you’re at risk of developing high blood pressure, and you may need to consider your diet and exercise habits and perhaps track your blood pressure at home.
High blood pressure, stage 1, may require some lifestyle modifications, and your provider may suggest medication, depending on your particular circumstances. High blood pressure, stage 2, is more concerning, and you may need medical treatment and help managing your blood pressure.
A hypertensive crisis is a crisis—you need immediate medical care.
Your day-to-day habits can improve or worsen your blood pressure over time. Eating a well-balanced, nutritious diet low in sodium is a great place to start. Consider the DASH diet, which was developed specifically for controlling blood pressure.
Exercise is another way to improve blood pressure. Even a daily, brisk, 30-minute walk can improve heart health and blood pressure. You can even break it up into three 10-minute walks and have the same positive effect.
Other lifestyle habits that can benefit blood pressure include not smoking, limiting alcohol, and learning to lower stress levels.
Along with those actions, you should also see your doctor regularly for checkups and develop an awareness of what your blood pressure is like most of the time. Schedule your appointment at Apex Medical Center's most convenient location today and discuss your risk of developing high blood pressure.
