Blood pressure measures the force of blood against artery walls as your heart pumps. Consistently high readings can signal underlying health concerns. A reading of 198 indicates a significantly elevated level that warrants immediate consideration.
Understanding 198 Blood Pressure
A blood pressure reading consists of two numbers: systolic and diastolic pressure. The first number, 198, represents the systolic pressure, which is the pressure in your arteries when your heart beats and contracts. The second number, the diastolic pressure, measures the pressure in your arteries between heartbeats when your heart rests. A systolic reading of 198 mmHg, regardless of the diastolic number, falls into the category of a hypertensive crisis.
A hypertensive crisis is a severe increase in blood pressure, defined as readings above 180/120 mmHg. This range can be further classified into two types: hypertensive urgency and hypertensive emergency. A reading of 198 mmHg systolic signals a potentially dangerous situation for the cardiovascular system. The elevated pressure exerts considerable strain on blood vessels and organs.
Immediate Steps for a High Reading
A blood pressure reading of 198 requires immediate action. If taking a home reading, recheck your blood pressure after a few minutes of rest to confirm the reading. If the reading remains at or above 180/120 mmHg, it indicates a hypertensive crisis.
Distinguish between a hypertensive urgency and a hypertensive emergency. A hypertensive urgency occurs when blood pressure is 180/110 mmHg or higher without symptoms of organ damage. In such cases, contact a doctor immediately for urgent medical advice. A hypertensive emergency, however, involves a blood pressure reading of 180/120 mmHg or higher accompanied by symptoms of organ damage.
Symptoms that signal a hypertensive emergency include:
Severe headache
Blurred vision
Confusion
Chest pain
Shortness of breath
Numbness or weakness
Difficulty speaking
If any of these symptoms are present with a reading of 198, call 911 or seek emergency medical help. Delaying treatment can lead to serious complications, such as stroke, heart attack, or kidney damage.
Common Causes and Contributing Factors
Elevated blood pressure can stem from various underlying reasons. Uncontrolled primary hypertension, also known as essential hypertension, is a common cause, developing slowly over time without a clear identifiable reason. This type of hypertension is often influenced by genetics and lifestyle habits.
Secondary hypertension, which can cause a sudden and severe spike in blood pressure, may result from other medical conditions. These include kidney disease, obstructive sleep apnea, thyroid disorders, and adrenal gland tumors that disrupt kidney and heart function.
Certain medications can also elevate blood pressure, such as decongestants, some over-the-counter pain relievers, and birth control pills. Non-adherence to prescribed blood pressure medication is another frequent cause of sudden spikes. Illicit drug use, including cocaine and amphetamines, can significantly narrow blood vessels, leading to high readings. Acute stress can also temporarily raise blood pressure by increasing hormone levels like cortisol.
Long-Term Management and Lifestyle Adjustments
Once an immediate hypertensive crisis is addressed, long-term management strategies are important to prevent future high readings. Lifestyle modifications play a significant role in controlling blood pressure and enhancing the effectiveness of prescribed medications. A heart-healthy eating plan, such as the Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) diet, is recommended, focusing on fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins while limiting sodium, red meat, and added sugars.
Regular physical activity is important; aiming for at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic exercise per week, such as walking or swimming, can help lower blood pressure. Maintaining a healthy weight is advised, as losing even a small percentage of body weight can reduce blood pressure. Limiting alcohol intake to no more than one drink per day for women and two for men, and quitting smoking entirely, are beneficial for blood pressure control. Stress management techniques like deep breathing, meditation, or yoga contribute to overall cardiovascular health. Consistent monitoring of blood pressure and ongoing medical supervision are necessary for effective management.