Understanding Blood Pressure Readings
High blood pressure, also knows as hypertension, is something you need to keep an eye on. It is very important to understand what your blood pressure readings mean! This helps you control your high blood pressure.
As we can see in the image, there are different levels of high blood pressure. Those recommendations are made by the American Heart Association.
Please bear in mind that high blood pressure diagnosis should always be confirmed by a medical professional !
What's the meaning of each blood pressure category?
Normal:
Numbers less than 120/80 mm Hg are considered within the normal range. Should you readings fall in this category, then stick with your normal habits. A healthy diet and regular exercise are the key to keep your readings in this category.
Elevated:
Readings in the range 120-129 systolic and less than 80 mm Hg diastolic are considered as elevated blood pressure.
People who fall in this category are likely to develop high blood pressure unless they take steps to control the condition.
Hypertension Stage 1
If you're blood pressure is consistently in the ranges from 130-139 systolic or 80-89 mm Hg diastolic then you might be in the Hypertension Stage 1 category.
At this stage, your doctor is likely to prescribe some lifestyle changes and possibly add some medication. However, we prefer using a different approach to help you lower your blood pressure and avoid getting heart attack or stroke.
Hypertension Stage 2
If you're blood pressure is consistently in the ranges at 140/90 mm Hg or higher then you might be in the Hypertension Stage 2 category. Once again, we'd recommend you a different approach that'd avoid putting yourself through a set of medication.
Hypertensive crisis
If you're at this stage, you need to have medical attention. You could be experiencing a hypertensive crisis. If your blood pressure readings suddenly exceed 180/120 mm Hg, wait five minutes and then test your blood pressure again.
Should your numbers are still unsually high, contact your doctor immediately!
In the event of your blood pressure being higher than 180/120 mm Hg and you're experiencing any of the following signs of possible organ damage:
- chest pain,
- shortness of breath,
- back pain,
- numbness/weakness,
- change in vision,
- difficulty speaking,