Blood pressure is the force exerted by circulating blood against the walls of your arteries, the vessels that carry blood from the heart to the rest of the body. This pressure is generated by the heart’s pumping action and the resistance of the blood vessels. Understanding your blood pressure numbers is an important step in maintaining overall health.
Understanding Blood Pressure Readings
A blood pressure reading consists of two numbers: systolic and diastolic. The systolic pressure, the top number, represents the pressure in your arteries when your heart beats and pumps blood out. The diastolic pressure, the bottom number, indicates the pressure in your arteries when your heart is at rest between beats.
Blood pressure readings are categorized to help assess health status. Normal blood pressure is less than 120/80 mmHg. Elevated blood pressure ranges from a systolic pressure of 120-129 mmHg and a diastolic pressure less than 80 mmHg.
Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is divided into stages. Hypertension Stage 1 is characterized by a systolic pressure between 130-139 mmHg or a diastolic pressure between 80-89 mmHg. Hypertension Stage 2 is defined by a systolic pressure of 140 mmHg or higher, or a diastolic pressure of 90 mmHg or higher. A blood pressure reading of 165 mmHg falls into the Hypertension Stage 2 category and requires medical evaluation. Even if the diastolic number is within a normal range, a systolic reading of 165 mmHg suggests that the heart is working harder to pump blood through the arteries.
Health Risks of Elevated Blood Pressure
Sustained high blood pressure can quietly damage the body over time without noticeable symptoms, often leading to it being called “the silent killer.” The constant excessive pressure on artery walls can harm blood vessels and various organs throughout the body. The higher the blood pressure and the longer it remains uncontrolled, the greater the potential for serious health complications.
High blood pressure significantly affects the heart, increasing the risk of conditions like heart attack and heart failure. The persistent strain can cause the heart’s pumping chamber to thicken, a condition known as left ventricular hypertrophy, which eventually hinders its ability to pump enough blood. High blood pressure can also damage blood vessels in the brain, increasing the likelihood of stroke, transient ischemic attacks (TIAs), and certain types of dementia, including vascular dementia.
The kidneys are vulnerable to the effects of high blood pressure, as it can narrow and weaken the blood vessels within them, impairing their ability to filter waste. This can lead to kidney disease or even kidney failure over time. The tiny blood vessels in the eyes can also be damaged, potentially causing vision problems such as hypertensive retinopathy, or even blindness. High blood pressure contributes to atherosclerosis, a process where plaque builds up in the arteries, further narrowing them and increasing the risk of serious cardiovascular events.
Taking Action for High Blood Pressure
Given a blood pressure reading of 165 mmHg, consulting a medical professional is the primary recommendation for an accurate diagnosis and a personalized treatment plan. Self-treatment is not advisable, as a healthcare provider can determine the appropriate course of action, which may include lifestyle modifications, medication, or both.
Lifestyle changes are crucial for managing high blood pressure.
- Adopting a healthy diet, such as the DASH eating plan, emphasizing fruits, vegetables, low-fat dairy, and limiting sodium.
- Engaging in regular physical activity, aiming for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days of the week.
- Maintaining a healthy weight, as even a small reduction can lead to a decrease in blood pressure.
- Limiting alcohol intake to no more than two drinks per day for men and one drink per day for women.
- Managing stress through relaxation techniques or other methods.
- Quitting smoking, which temporarily raises blood pressure and damages arteries.
In many cases, medication may be necessary in addition to these lifestyle adjustments to effectively manage blood pressure levels. Regular monitoring of blood pressure, both at home and during doctor visits, is important to track progress and ensure the treatment plan is effective.