Blood pressure measures the force of blood pushing against the walls of your arteries as it circulates through your body. This measurement involves two numbers: systolic pressure, the top number, and diastolic pressure, the bottom number. A reading like 197/60 is an unusual measurement that warrants immediate attention.
Deciphering Your Blood Pressure Reading
The top number, systolic pressure, reflects the pressure in your arteries when your heart beats and pumps blood. The bottom number, diastolic pressure, indicates the pressure in your arteries when your heart rests between beats. Normal blood pressure for most adults is less than 120/80 mmHg.
A reading of 197/60 mmHg shows a systolic pressure of 197 mmHg, while the diastolic pressure of 60 mmHg is normal or low. This combination, where systolic pressure is 180 mmHg or higher and diastolic pressure is below 120 mmHg, is often called isolated systolic hypertension. A systolic reading of 197 mmHg, however, falls into the “Hypertensive Crisis” or “Hypertension Stage 3” category.
The American Heart Association defines a hypertensive crisis as a blood pressure reading of 180/120 mmHg or greater. Even with a normal diastolic number, the high systolic reading of 197 mmHg is a concern, indicating a dangerous situation that requires prompt medical evaluation.
Immediate Steps and When to Seek Help
If you obtain a blood pressure reading of 197/60 mmHg, you should rest for a few minutes and then re-measure your blood pressure. If the second reading remains high, or if symptoms occur, seek immediate medical attention.
Seek emergency medical help by calling 911 or going to the nearest emergency room if this high reading is accompanied by symptoms such as severe headache, chest pain, shortness of breath, blurred vision, confusion, nausea, vomiting, numbness, or weakness. These symptoms, combined with severely elevated blood pressure, can signal a hypertensive emergency. This poses a risk of organ damage (heart, brain, kidneys) and can lead to events like a stroke or heart attack.
Addressing Underlying Factors and Management
Several factors can contribute to high systolic blood pressure, including the natural stiffening of arteries with age, medical conditions like thyroid issues or kidney disease, and certain medications. Lifestyle factors like a high-salt diet, lack of physical activity, heavy alcohol use, and smoking can also contribute.
Managing high blood pressure involves a combination of lifestyle adjustments and medication. Lifestyle changes include adopting a heart-healthy diet, regular physical activity, and stress reduction techniques. A healthcare provider can offer a diagnosis and develop a personalized treatment plan to manage blood pressure and reduce future complications.