Blood pressure represents the force exerted by circulating blood against the walls of the arteries. This measurement provides insights into how effectively blood moves throughout the body, delivering oxygen and nutrients to vital organs. Regularly monitoring blood pressure is an important aspect of managing overall health.
Understanding Blood Pressure Numbers
A blood pressure reading consists of two numbers, typically presented as a fraction. The top number, known as systolic pressure, reflects the pressure within the arteries when the heart contracts and pushes blood out into the body. This measurement indicates the maximum pressure during each heartbeat.
The bottom number, or diastolic pressure, measures the pressure in the arteries when the heart is at rest between beats, allowing it to refill with blood. Both numbers are expressed in millimeters of mercury (mmHg).
Interpreting a 158/108 Reading
A blood pressure reading of 158/108 mmHg falls into a concerning category according to medical guidelines, such as those from the American Heart Association and American College of Cardiology. Specifically, both the systolic pressure of 158 mmHg and the diastolic pressure of 108 mmHg are elevated. This combination places the reading in the “Stage 2 Hypertension” classification.
Stage 2 hypertension is defined by a systolic reading of 140 mmHg or higher, or a diastolic reading of 90 mmHg or higher. This reading is significantly above healthy ranges and warrants prompt attention from a healthcare professional.
Why High Blood Pressure Matters
Sustained high blood pressure damages organs and systems throughout the body. The constant elevated force against artery walls strains blood vessels, leading to tiny tears and plaque buildup. This can narrow arteries and impede blood flow.
This strain can result in serious health complications. These include an increased risk of heart attack, heart failure, and stroke. It can also harm the kidneys, leading to kidney disease or failure, and negatively affect eye health, potentially causing vision loss. High blood pressure is often called a “silent killer” because it often has no noticeable symptoms until significant damage occurs.
Steps to Take for Your Health
Given a blood pressure reading of 158/108 mmHg, consult a healthcare professional promptly. A doctor can diagnose your condition and recommend personalized treatment. Regular blood pressure monitoring, often at home, helps track progress and ensure interventions are effective.
Lifestyle modifications are often recommended to manage high blood pressure. These include adopting a heart-healthy eating plan, such as the DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) diet, which emphasizes reduced sodium intake. Regular physical activity, aiming for at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic exercise per week, also contributes to lower blood pressure.
Maintaining a healthy weight is important, as even a small reduction can help lower blood pressure. Managing stress through techniques like meditation or deep breathing, and limiting alcohol consumption, are also beneficial. Often, medication is necessary in conjunction with lifestyle changes to control blood pressure and reduce long-term health risks.