Ask a Doc - Blood Pressure Readings

The heart pumps oxygenated blood to all parts of the body through the arteries.  Blood pressure is calculated by reading the strength at which the blood pulsates against the walls of the arteries.  Half of all Americans have high blood pressure, also known as hypertension, and many are unaware of the potentially dangerous disorder.  High blood pressure develops when blood flows through the arteries at higher-than-normal pressures.

Blood pressure is measured in units of millimeters of mercury (mmHg).  The readings are always given in pairs.  The upper value given first, represents systolic pressure, the pressure from the ventricles pumping blood out of the heart.  The lower number represents diastolic pressure, the pressure between heartbeats, when the heart is filling with blood.  The diastolic pressure is always lower than the systolic pressure.

A person is considered to be experiencing high blood if either number is in an unsafe range.  For example, if the systolic pressure is in the normal range and the diastolic pressure is in the high range, the overall blood pressure is considered high.  Healthy blood pressure for most adults is typically less than 120 over 80 mmHg.  Blood pressure rises and falls throughout the day; however, pressure that remains elevated over time is known as high blood pressure.  High blood pressure occurs when consistent systolic readings are 130 mmHg or higher, or diastolic readings are 80 mmHg or higher.  Research has shown that systolic blood pressure greater than 120 mmHg can be increasingly harmful to health.  Readings above 180 over 120 mmHg are dangerously high and require immediate medical attention.

The higher-than-normal readings indicate that the heart is straining to function, and the force of the strong blood flow may harm arteries and organs.  High blood pressure is a major risk factor for heart disease, which is the leading cause of death in the United States.  If uncontrolled, the pressure causes harm to the heart and can contribute to kidney disease, stroke, blindness, and dementia.  Often, there are no warning signs or symptoms to indicate someone may have high blood pressure. 

A healthcare provider can check blood pressure quickly and easily during a regular checkup or other appointment.  Screenings are suggested for everyone age 3 or older at least once a year.  A blood pressure test is easy and painless and can be done in the provider’s office or clinic.  The provider uses a gauge, stethoscope, or electronic sensor and a blood pressure cuff to measure blood pressure.  To diagnose high blood pressure, two or more blood pressure readings at separate medical appointments are considered. 

In addition to a blood pressure screening, a provider may also discuss general information about a patient’s health and medical history to determine risk factors for high blood pressure.  The risk factors include: 

• Age – blood vessels thicken and stiffen over time 
• Family history 
• Lifestyle habits such as unhealthy eating, drinking too much alcohol, and smoking
• Race or ethnicity

For most people with high blood pressure, a healthcare provider will develop a treatment plan that may include heart-healthy lifestyle changes alone or prescription medication.  A risk calculator can assist in estimating the risk of complications and choosing the most effective treatment.  A nutritionist and pharmacist may be included to assist with creating the treatment plan.
 
Making healthy lifestyle changes is vital to reducing and preventing high blood pressure.  First, choose heart-healthy foods and reduce sodium intake.  Avoiding or limiting alcohol and smoking reduces the risks for developing numerous diseases and health issues.  Many programs are available for support.  To assist with tobacco cessation, consider Licking Memorial Hospital’s Quit for Your Health program.
 
Many health benefits result from getting the recommended amount of physical activity each week.  Studies have shown that physical activity assists in lowering and controlling high blood pressure levels. Even modest amounts of physical activity are valuable for good health.  Maintaining a healthy weight is also helpful in lowering blood pressure.

Learning how to manage stress and cope with stress improves both mental and physical health.  Learning relaxation techniques, talking to a counselor, and finding a support group are beneficial.  Quality sleep also supports wellbeing and good health.  The recommended amount of sleep for adults is 7 to 9 hours of sleep per day.  Develop healthy sleep habits by establishing a sleep schedule, following a calming bedtime routine, and keeping the bedroom cool and dark.

Changing habits is often difficult.  To simplify the process, attempt to make one change at a time.  Once one habit has become natural, work to change an additional habit.  Managing high blood pressure will be more successful when several healthy habits are practiced together and sustained over time.

| Posted On : 6/20/2023 3:18:44 PM