Hypertension also know as, High blood pressure, is a medical condition which refers to blood pressure that is higher than normal.
A person’s blood pressure varies throughout the day based on their activities. Having blood pressure measured frequently helps identify the condition quickly. Any reading that is above normal may result in a diagnosis of high blood pressure or hypertension.
Blood pressure can be categorized as;
Normal blood pressure. Your blood pressure is normal if it’s below 120/80 mm Hg.
Elevated blood pressure. Elevated blood pressure is a systolic pressure ranging from 120 to 129 mm Hg and a diastolic pressure below (not above) 80 mm Hg. Elevated blood pressure tends to get worse over time unless steps are taken to control blood pressure. Elevated blood pressure may also be called pre-hypertension.
Stage 1 hypertension. Stage 1 hypertension is a systolic pressure ranging from 130 to 139 mm Hg or a diastolic pressure ranging from 80 to 89 mm Hg.
Stage 2 hypertension. More-severe hypertension, stage 2 hypertension is a systolic pressure of 140 mm Hg or higher or a diastolic pressure of 90 mm Hg or higher.
Hypertensive crisis. A blood pressure measurement higher than 180/120 mm Hg is an emergency situation that requires urgent medical care. If you get this result when you take your blood pressure at home, wait five minutes and retest. If your blood pressure is still this high, contact your doctor immediately. If you also have chest pain, vision problems, numbness or weakness, breathing difficulty, or any other signs and symptoms of a stroke or heart attack, call 911 or your local emergency medical number.
Blood Pressure can be managed at home by simply doing the following;
- Eat healthy foods. Eat a heart-healthy diet.
- Decrease the salt in your diet. Aim to limit sodium to less than 2,300 milligrams (mg) a day or less. …
- Maintain a healthy weight.
- Increase physical activity.
- Limit alcohol.
- Don’t smoke.
- Manage stress.
Monitor your blood pressure at home. Any readings that is above the normal blood pressure range is a cause to seek medical assistance as soon as possible.
What are some of the myths you have heard about Hypertension? Share your opinions below in the comments section.
