Blood pressure is a measurement of the force blood exerts against the walls of your arteries as it circulates throughout your body. It is expressed as two numbers: systolic pressure and diastolic pressure. The systolic reading, the first or top number, reflects the pressure when your heart beats and pushes blood out. The diastolic reading, the second or bottom number, indicates the pressure in your arteries when your heart rests between beats. Measuring blood pressure helps assess how effectively your heart is pumping blood and the resistance in your blood vessels.
Understanding 151/113 Blood Pressure
A blood pressure reading of 151/113 mmHg is considerably elevated. The American Heart Association classifies 140/90 mmHg or higher as Stage 2 hypertension. A reading of 180/120 mmHg or higher is considered a “hypertensive crisis.” A reading like 151/113 mmHg, particularly with the diastolic number at 113, indicates a hypertensive urgency, meaning blood pressure is severely high but without immediate signs of organ damage. The elevated diastolic number is concerning as it suggests sustained strain on your cardiovascular system.
Immediate Actions to Take
If you receive a blood pressure reading of 151/113 mmHg, remain calm but take the situation seriously. Re-check your blood pressure after resting quietly for a few minutes. If the reading remains elevated, contact a healthcare provider immediately for guidance. Do not self-medicate or take extra doses of prescribed blood pressure medication without specific medical instructions. If you experience symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath, severe headache, vision changes, or numbness and weakness, seek emergency medical attention by calling 911 or going to the nearest emergency room.
Potential Causes and Contributing Factors
A sudden spike in blood pressure to a level like 151/113 mmHg can stem from various factors. A common cause is forgetting to take prescribed blood pressure medication or suddenly stopping certain heart medications. Interactions between medications, including over-the-counter drugs and herbal supplements, can also lead to spikes. Acute stress, anxiety, or severe pain can temporarily elevate blood pressure due to a surge in hormones that narrow blood vessels and increase heart rate.
Lifestyle elements such as high sodium intake, excessive alcohol consumption, or the use of stimulants like caffeine or certain illegal drugs can also contribute to a sudden rise in blood pressure. Underlying medical conditions, including kidney disease, thyroid issues, or an overactive adrenal gland, can also cause blood pressure to spike. “White coat hypertension,” caused by anxiety in a clinical setting, can also result in temporarily elevated readings.
Long-Term Health Considerations and Management
Consistently high blood pressure, if left unmanaged, can lead to significant long-term health problems. The constant force against artery walls can damage the smooth lining of blood vessels, leading to plaque buildup and narrowing of the arteries, a process called atherosclerosis. This damage increases the risk of serious complications such as heart attack, stroke, kidney disease, vision loss, and heart failure. High blood pressure can also contribute to metabolic syndrome, a cluster of conditions that further raise the risk of heart disease and diabetes.
Managing high blood pressure over time involves a combination of lifestyle modifications and medical treatment. Adopting a heart-healthy diet, such as the Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) eating plan, can significantly lower blood pressure. Regular physical activity helps strengthen the heart and blood vessels. Maintaining a healthy weight, limiting alcohol intake, and quitting smoking are also important steps.
Medical management often includes regular doctor visits for monitoring and adherence to prescribed medications. Common classes of blood pressure medications include diuretics, which help the body eliminate excess salt and water, and ACE inhibitors or ARBs, which relax blood vessels. Calcium channel blockers and beta-blockers are also used to relax blood vessels or reduce the heart’s workload. Often, a combination of medications is necessary to achieve healthy blood pressure levels. Consistent home monitoring and open communication with your healthcare team are important for preventing future crises and safeguarding long-term health.