Blood pressure measures the force of blood against artery walls. It indicates how effectively your heart pumps blood, delivering oxygen and nutrients throughout your body. Understanding this measurement is important for cardiovascular health.
Blood Pressure Categories
Blood pressure readings consist of two numbers: systolic and diastolic pressure. Systolic pressure measures the force when your heart contracts and pushes blood into the arteries. Diastolic pressure indicates the pressure in your arteries when your heart rests between beats.
According to guidelines from the American Heart Association (AHA) and American College of Cardiology (ACC), blood pressure is categorized into several ranges. Normal blood pressure is defined as a systolic reading less than 120 mmHg and a diastolic reading less than 80 mmHg. Readings between 120-129 mmHg systolic and less than 80 mmHg diastolic are classified as elevated blood pressure.
Hypertension, or high blood pressure, begins at higher thresholds. Stage 1 hypertension is a systolic pressure between 130-139 mmHg or a diastolic pressure between 80-89 mmHg. Stage 2 hypertension is diagnosed when systolic pressure is 140 mmHg or higher, or diastolic pressure is 90 mmHg or higher.
Interpreting a Reading of 157
A systolic blood pressure reading of 157 mmHg falls into the Stage 2 Hypertension category. This classification, according to ACC/AHA guidelines, indicates an elevated pressure. A single high reading does not automatically lead to a diagnosis of high blood pressure.
Various factors can temporarily influence a blood pressure reading, such as recent physical activity, stress, or caffeine consumption. For an accurate assessment, healthcare providers recommend multiple readings taken over time. This helps confirm consistent elevation before a definitive diagnosis.
Immediate Actions After a High Reading
If you receive a high blood pressure reading like 157 mmHg, recheck it after resting quietly for a few minutes. If the reading remains elevated, consult a healthcare professional promptly. This allows for proper evaluation within your overall health context.
While a single high reading warrants attention, it is important to differentiate it from a hypertensive crisis. Seek emergency medical attention if a high blood pressure reading is accompanied by severe symptoms, including:
- Chest pain
- Sudden shortness of breath
- Severe headache
- Sudden vision changes
- Numbness or weakness
Long-Term Management Strategies
Adopting lifestyle modifications can help manage and lower high blood pressure over time. Dietary changes play an important role, with the DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) diet recommended. This eating plan emphasizes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and low-fat dairy, while limiting red meat, added sugars, and unhealthy fats.
Reducing sodium intake is another component, with an ideal target of no more than 1,500 milligrams per day for many adults, especially those with high blood pressure. This involves avoiding processed foods and using herbs and spices instead of salt for flavoring. Regular physical activity also contributes to blood pressure management. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise or 75 minutes of vigorous aerobic activity weekly, incorporating resistance training on two or more days.
Limiting alcohol consumption to no more than one drink per day for women and two drinks per day for men can impact blood pressure. Excessive alcohol intake is known to temporarily raise blood pressure and contribute to long-term elevation. Stress management techniques, such as deep breathing exercises, mindfulness, and adequate sleep, can help mitigate stress-induced blood pressure fluctuations. Consistent monitoring and follow-up with your doctor are important for ongoing management and adjusting strategies as needed.