High blood pressure is second only to smoking as a risk factor for disease and death. Known as the “silent killer”, patients with high blood pressure may have it for years and not have any symptoms of it. Some may develop symptoms of dizziness, lightheadedness, flushing, chest discomfort or palpitations (a feeling of the hear racing). Given that most patients will not have symptoms until the blood pressure reaches extreme levels, it is important to be checked and to know your blood pressure numbers.
Normal blood pressure is defined as less than 120/80. The top number of the reading is referred to as the systolic pressure, which is the pressure in your blood vessels when your heart is squeezing during your heart beat. The bottom number is called the diastolic pressure, which is the pressure in your blood vessels when the heart briefly relaxes after squeezing during a heart beat.
Given how important blood pressure control is to your health, the guidelines for normal blood pressure and the decision on when to treat a high reading changed several years ago. The stages of blood pressure are currently defined as follows:
· Normal blood pressure is less than 120/80.
· Elevated blood pressure is when the readings are 120-129 for the top number and less than 80 for the bottom number (120-129/<80).
· Stage 1 high blood pressure is when the reading is a top number of 130-139 and/or a bottom reading of 80-89 (130-139/80-89).
· Stage 2 high blood pressure is when the top reading is 140 or higher and/or the bottom reading is 90 or more (>140/90).
Depending on your blood pressure reading and other health issues, your doctor may first recommend trying lifestyle modifications without medication to lower your blood pressure. Some of the most important changes you can make to help lower your blood pressure include losing weight, stopping smoking, lowering your salt intake, moderating your alcohol intake, and following a healthy diet which rich in fruits, vegetables, low fat dairy products and whole grains. Increasing potassium intake may also be recommended.
For patients who are unable to improve their numbers after attempting lifestyle changes, for those who have a high risk of heart disease, or for those who are already have certain health problems, several different types of medications are available to help lower your blood pressure. Your doctor will discuss which types will be most appropriate for you based on your personal history and other health issues.
Without controlling your blood pressure, you put yourself at risk of significant health problems, including heart attack, heart failure, stroke, kidney disease, and vision damage.
So find a primary care doctor that you trust and get to know your numbers today!
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