How Can I Tell If I Have High Blood Pressure
According to the American Heart Association:
- The normal blood pressure range is a systolic reading of less than 120 mmHg and a diastolic reading of less than 80 mmHg.
- Your blood pressure is elevated if the systolic number is between 120 and 129 mmHg and the diastolic pressure is less than 80 mmHg.
- If your systolic and diastolic pressure is 130-139 and 80-89 mmHg, you have stage 1 hypertension.
- If your systolic and diastolic blood pressure is 140/90 mmHg or above, then you have stage 2 hypertension.
- A hypertensive crisis is blood pressure readings of 180/120 mmHg or higher. This is an emergency that requires immediate medical attention. If your numbers are 180/120 mmHg or higher, recheck your blood pressure after 5 minutes. If you continue to have elevated blood pressure, you should contact your doctor immediately.
What Are The Causes Of Isolated Systolic Hypertension
Blood pressure involves how much blood your heart pumps every minute, as well as the pressure exerted on the walls of your arteries by that blood.
As you age, your arteries lose some of their natural elasticity and are less able to accommodate the rush of blood. Plaque, which is fatty deposits on the artery wall, can also contribute to the stiffening of the arteries.
Blood pressure particularly systolic blood pressure naturally tends to increase with age. Because of this, there may be no identifiable cause of high blood pressure.
However, there are some medical conditions that can cause you to develop ISH. These conditions can affect your circulatory system, which can damage your blood vessels or contribute to artery stiffening.
Some of these conditions include:
What Are The Medical Uses For Stimulants
Approved medical uses for stimulants include
- attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder ,
- treatment-resistant depression.
- Some formulations are used for treating obesity.
Because of their addictive potential, some stimulants are no longer recommended for treating asthma and other nervous system disorders.
Recommended Reading: High Cholesterol And High Blood Pressure Diet
Diastolic Blood Pressure: How Low Is Too Low
- May 17, 2015
Blood pressure consists of two numbers. Systolic pressure, the force exerted on blood vessels when the heart beats, is the upper number. Diastolic pressure, the force exerted when the heart is at rest, is on the bottom in more ways than one. Systolic pressure attracts the lions share of attention from physicians and patients, says UAB cardiologist Jason Guichard, M.D., Ph.D.
Physicians are busy people, and like it or not they often focus on a single number, Guichard said. Systolic blood pressure is the focus, and diastolic pressure is almost completely ignored. That is a mistake, he argues. The majority of your arteries feed your organs during systole. But your coronary arteries are different they are surrounding the aortic valve, so they get blood only when the aortic valve closes and that happens in diastole.
Diastolic pressure has been getting more attention lately, however, thanks in part to an influential paper in Hypertension, written in 2011 by Guichard and Ali Ahmed, M.D., then a professor of medicine in UABs Division of Gerontology, Geriatrics and Palliative Care and now the associate chief of staff for Health and Aging at the Veterans Affairs Medical Center in Washington, D.C.
Most people are trying to lower their blood pressure. What would you define as too low, and why is that a problem?
Hsn Deirmenci* Eftal Murat Bakirci Murat Akir And Halil Brahim Tanrseven
*Corresponding author:Received: Accepted:Keywords
Cite this as
Abstract
In various guidelines, isolated diastolic hypertension is defined as diastolic blood pressure > 80 or > 90mmHg in individuals with normal systolic blood pressure. While isolated diastolic hypertension was associated with adverse cardiovascular events in observational studies, this relationship is not clear in epidemiological studies. Increased arterial stiffness, increased central hemodynamics, vasoconstriction, increased adrenergic activity, increased renin angiotensin aldesteron activity play a role in the pathophysiology. Isolated diastolic hypertension is associated with male gender, young age, increased body mass index, increased glucose level, increased alcohol consumption and high triglyceride levels. Although treatment is not recommended in young people in isolated diastolic hypertension, treatment should be individualized according to the underlying cardiovascular disease in the elderly.
Main article text
You May Like: Antihistamine And High Blood Pressure
Improving Blood Pressure Reading Accuracy
Your systolic and diastolic pressuresthe highest and lowest points of your heartbeatchange depending on your activity level, stress, fluid intake, and other factors.
You need to do your best to limit how these other factors might change your pressure when you’re taking a blood pressure reading.
For the most accurate reading, check your blood pressure when you are in a calm, warm space after you have been able to rest quietly for at least five minutes.
You should be relaxed, with your arms at your sides, and the cuff should be placed on your arm at about the level of your heart. Your legs should be uncrossed, and your bladder should be empty, as both of these factors can affect your reading.
Measuring blood pressure this way is a challenge in a busy provider’s office. Your provider might suggest you take your blood pressure at home.
Low Systolic Blood Pressure
There is such a thing as too-low systolic pressure, however. When the reading is significantly below normal, it’s called hypotension. This can cause lightheadedness, dizziness, or fainting. If low blood pressure is not treated, it may cause organs like the kidneys to start shutting down.
Systolic hypotension can happen if the amount of blood in your body becomes too low. For example, low blood pressure can happen when you are severely dehydrated or when you have major bleeding. In these cases, there just isn’t enough blood to push through the body.
Low blood pressure can also happen if the heart muscle is too weak to push blood normallyfor example if the heart muscle is damaged or if the arteries suddenly widen too much .
Sometimes, low blood pressure happens when you change positions suddenly. You may feel dizzy when you stand up because gravity is pulling blood down toward your feet. This is a common condition called orthostatic hypotension.
Don’t Miss: What’s The Difference Between Blood And Plasma
What Lifestyle Changes Can Lower High Blood Pressure
Whatever the cause may be, isolated diastolic hypertension should not be ignored because the systolic pressure will also elevate over time. IDH can be managed with some simple lifestyle changes, dietary enhancements, and medications.
A few ways that aid in lowering IDH are:
- Reduce sodium in the diet: Sodium can increase blood pressure, so limiting sodium consumption can prevent IDH.
- Get more potassium: Potassium can counteract the effects sodium has on blood pressure. So, potassium utilization can help decrease IDH.
- Avoid caffeine: Caffeine acts as a stimulant that can raise blood pressure.
- Cut back on alcohol: Drinking liquor can raise blood pressure. Thus, avoiding alcohol can help prevent and treat IDH.
- Stop smoking: The nicotine in cigarettes is a stimulant that can raise blood pressure. It can likewise prompt injury of the walls of arteries. Thus, avoiding smoking can help bring down IDH.
- Dietary supplements: They might help lower blood pressure.
- Minerals, such as magnesium, calcium, and potassium
- Cocoa, coenzyme Q10, L-arginine, garlic, and omega-3 unsaturated fats widen blood vessels
High Diastolic Blood Pressure Ranges
Diastolic has different blood pressure ranges depending on what your numbers are 1. There are fine lines between normal, elevated and high. Lets take a look at the numbers and find out, what is considered high diastolic blood pressure?
High diastolic blood pressure is a diastolic number 80 mmHg or more. High Blood Pressure Stage 1 is a diastolic number between 80-89 mmHg. High Blood Pressure Stage 2 is a diastolic number 90 mmHg or higher. Hypertensive Crisis is a diastolic number 121 mmHg or higher.
The diastolic numbers and ranges are listed in the blood pressure chart below 2.
Notice each of the high diastolic ranges is irregardless of the systolic blood pressure number. The normal and elevated ranges require both the systolic and diastolic number to fall into each range indicated with the word and.
Recommended Reading: Diabetes And High Blood Pressure Treatment
What Happens If Diastolic Is Low
If your diastolic blood pressure is too low, your heart muscles won’t get enough oxygenated blood. This can lead to weakening of you heart, a condition called diastolic heart failure. You may be at higher risk for this type of heart failure if you have coronary heart disease, which is narrowing of your heart arteries.
Ask The Doctor: Treatment For High Systolic Pressure
|
Anthony L. Komaroff, M.D. |
Q.I’m 71 and my systolic pressure is usually in the 150s to 160s, which is high, but my diastolic is usually in the 80s, which is normal. Do I need treatment?
A. A blood pressure measurement includes two numbers: systolic pressure and diastolic pressure . Your systolic pressure is high: 140 or over is high. And your lower number is not normal: normal diastolic pressure is below 80. However, even if your diastolic pressure were truly normal, say 70, you would still benefit from treatment. You would have a condition called isolated systolic hypertension . Many studies have shown that treatment of people with ISH lowers their risk of heart disease and stroke.
To continue reading this article, you must log in.
- Research health conditions
- Prepare for a doctor’s visit or test
- Find the best treatments and procedures for you
- Explore options for better nutrition and exercise
Don’t Miss: Hct Blood Test Normal Range
What Does It Mean When The Bottom Number Of Your Blood Pressure Is High
The bottom number refers to your blood pressure when your heart muscle is between beats. This is called diastolic pressure. Both numbers are important in determining the state of your heart health. Numbers greater than the ideal range indicate that your heart is working too hard to pump blood to the rest of your body.
High Diastolic Blood Pressure Meaning
If youve noticed the lower number on your blood pressure measurements has been high lately, your curiosity may be piqued. Common thoughts may be, is it too high or should I be worried? Therefore, lets answer the question, what does it mean when the diastolic blood pressure number is high?
A high diastolic blood pressure number means the pressure against the artery walls is increased when the heart is relaxed. A consistently high diastolic number of 80 mmHg or more increases the risk of higher systolic blood pressure, ischemic heart disease and stroke as a person ages.
This article will explain details everyone should know about high diastolic blood pressure. Ill inform you what the different diastolic numbers indicate, causes, consequences and ways to lower it.
BP TIP: Lower BP by just breathing? A device is FDA approved and The American Heart Association gave it the thumbs up. It simply guides your breathing a few minutes a day which has been proven to lower BP as shown in studies. You can check it out in the manufacturers website by .
Disclaimer: Some links in this article are affiliate links which means I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. As an Amazon associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Garlic And Garlic Milk
Considered one of the most effective natural remedies for diastolic hypertension. It is good for thrombosis, hardening of the arteries, and high blood cholesterol. Using fresh garlic is best. You can also make garlic milk by heating half a liter of water and milk and boil 10 garlic cloves in it. When it cools off, you can add some honey to it before drinking.
High Blood Pressure And Older Adults
On this page:
High blood pressure, or hypertension, is a major health problem that is common in older adults. Your bodys network of blood vessels, known as the vascular system, changes with age. Arteries get stiffer, causing blood pressure to go up. This can be true even for people who have heart-healthy habits and feel just fine. High blood pressure, sometimes called “the silent killer,” often does not cause signs of illness that you can see or feel. Though it affects nearly half of all adults, many may not even be aware they have it.
If high blood pressure isn’t controlled with lifestyle changes and medication, it can lead to serious health problems, including cardiovascular disease such as heart disease and stroke, vascular dementia, eye problems, and kidney disease. The good news is that blood pressure can be controlled in most people.
Women Who Consume A Lot Of Caffeine Should Reduce Their Consumption When Pregnant
In general, doctors recommend women reduce caffeine consumption when pregnant. Caffeine is a stimulant which can increase your heart rate, something that should be avoided during pregnancy. Caffeine also crosses the placenta and while an adult woman can handle the caffeine, a developing baby may not be able to. Studies have shown caffeine can cause birth defects, premature delivery, and miscarriage. Moderate levels of caffeine may be ok. Consult your doctor.
What Is Isolated Systolic Hypertension
ISH is when you have a systolic blood pressure reading of 140 mm Hg or higher, and a diastolic blood pressure reading of less than 80 mm Hg.
Even though only one of the two numbers is elevated, ISH is still considered a type of high blood pressure. In fact, ISH is the type of high blood pressure in people older than 65.
Like other types of high blood pressure, isolated systolic hypertension can raise your risk of:
- heart attack
- heart failure
- other health conditions
Additionally, a 2015 study found that ISH can increase the risk of heart disease and death in young adults.
ISH can also be a warning sign of other conditions such as anemia or hyperthyroidism.
Tips For Taking Blood Pressure Medication
Untreated high blood pressure can increase your risk of serious health problems. If your doctor prescribes medication to lower your blood pressure, remember:
- If you take blood pressure medication and your blood pressure goes down, it means medication and lifestyle changes are working. If another doctor asks if you have high blood pressure, the answer is, “Yes, but it is being treated.”
- Healthy lifestyle changes may help lower the dosage you need.
- Get up slowly from a seated or lying position and stand for a bit before walking. This lets your blood pressure adjust before walking to prevent lightheadedness and falls.
- Tell your doctor about all the drugs you take. Don’t forget to mention over-the-counter drugs, including vitamins and supplements. They may affect your blood pressure. They also can change how well your blood pressure medication works.
- Blood pressure medication should be taken at the same time each day as part of your daily routine. For example, take it in the morning with breakfast or in the evening before brushing your teeth. If you miss a dose, do not double the dose the next day.
- Remember to refill your medication before you run out and bring it with you when traveling. Its important to keep taking your medication unless your doctor tells you to stop.
- Before having surgery, ask your doctor if you should take your blood pressure medication on the day of your operation.
What’s Diastolic And Systolic Blood Pressure
Asked by: Mr. Neil Jacobson
Blood pressure is measured using two numbers: The first number, called systolic blood pressure, measures the pressure in your arteries when your heart beats. The second number, called diastolic blood pressure, measures the pressure in your arteries when your heart rests between beats.
Endocrine And Kidney Causes
The endocrine system is composed of a collection of glands that secrete hormones directly into the circulatory system. These hormones are able to target distant organs, helping to regulate physiology and behavior. The thyroid gland is one of these endocrine structures and it can produce abnormal levels of hormones that lead to elevations of diastolic blood pressure. Problems with the kidney, such as renal failure, are also a common reason for blood pressure increases.
What Are Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors What Are The Side Effects
Monoamine oxidase inhibitors or MAOIs were the first class of antidepressants to be developed. They fell out of favor because of concerns about interactions with certain foods and numerous drug interactions. MAOIs elevate the levels of norepinephrine, serotonin, and dopamine by inhibiting an enzyme called monoamine oxidase. Monoamine oxidase breaks down norepinephrine, serotonin, and dopamine. When monoamine oxidase is inhibited, norepinephrine, serotonin, and dopamine are not broken down, increasing the concentration of all three neurotransmitters in the brain.
Monoamine oxidase also breaks down tyramine, a chemical present in aged cheese, wines, and other aged foods. Since MAOIs inhibit monoamine oxidase, they decrease the breakdown of tyramine from ingested food, increasing the level of tyramine in the body. Excessive tyramine can elevate blood pressure and cause a hypertensive crisis. Patients treated with MAOIs should adhere to recommended dietary modifications that reduce the intake of tyramine. Interestingly, the 6 mg/24 hour dose of selegiline transdermal system does not require dietary restrictions because at this dose EMSAM does not substantially inhibit tyramine. Higher selegiline transdermal system doses require dietary restrictions.
What are the side effects of MAOIs?
Symptoms of hypertensive crises include
Other side effects and adverse events of MAOIs include:
Sexual side effects may diminish with time or a reduction in dose.
Endocrine And Kidney Conditions
An underactive thyroid, or hypothyroidism, is one of the more common secondary causes of IDH. As in primary hypertension, the elevated diastolic pressure is the result of excessive arteriolar narrowing.
Hypothyroidism may be suspected in a person with weight gain, fatigue and intolerance to the cold, but blood tests are required to confirm the diagnosis. Endocrine diseases producing high levels of aldosterone, parathyroid hormone or corticosteroids can also cause IDH.
Most diseases that damage the kidney can lead to IDH by reducing the ability of the kidneys to remove fluids from the body or by increasing the production of angiotensin. Renovascular hypertension, due to narrowing of the main artery leading to the kidneys, is another possible cause of IDH.