Blood pressure measures the force blood exerts against artery walls. It is a vital sign routinely checked by healthcare professionals, providing insights into your circulatory system’s efficiency. Maintaining healthy blood pressure is important for overall well-being and helps prevent serious complications like heart attack, stroke, and kidney disease. High blood pressure, known as hypertension, often presents without symptoms, earning it the moniker “silent killer.” Regular monitoring is therefore important.
What Systolic and Diastolic Pressure Represent
Blood pressure readings consist of two numbers: systolic and diastolic pressure. These numbers represent the pressure in your arteries at different stages of your heart’s cycle. Systolic pressure, the top number, measures the force when your heart contracts and pumps blood out. This phase, called systole, is when blood pressure is at its peak.
Diastolic pressure, the bottom number, indicates the pressure in your arteries when your heart relaxes between beats. During this diastolic phase, the heart refills with blood, and the pressure is at its lowest. Both measurements are expressed in millimeters of mercury (mmHg). Together, they provide a comprehensive picture of arterial health.
Interpreting Your Blood Pressure Numbers
Healthcare providers categorize blood pressure readings to assess health risks. A normal reading for most adults is typically below 120/80 mmHg. This indicates a healthy force against artery walls when the heart beats and rests.
Elevated blood pressure occurs when systolic pressure ranges from 120 to 129 mmHg and diastolic pressure remains below 80 mmHg. This stage suggests an increased risk of developing hypertension without lifestyle interventions. Stage 1 hypertension is diagnosed when systolic pressure falls between 130 and 139 mmHg or diastolic pressure is between 80 and 89 mmHg. Lifestyle changes are usually recommended, and medication may be considered depending on individual risk factors.
Stage 2 hypertension is characterized by systolic readings of 140 mmHg or higher, or diastolic readings of 90 mmHg or higher. This level often requires lifestyle adjustments and medication. A hypertensive crisis, a medical emergency, occurs when blood pressure suddenly exceeds 180/120 mmHg. This requires immediate medical attention, especially if accompanied by symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath, or vision changes.
The Relative Importance of Each Measurement
Both systolic and diastolic blood pressure are important indicators of cardiovascular health, though their significance varies with age and specific conditions. Historically, diastolic pressure was often considered more important. However, recent research highlights the predictive power of systolic pressure, particularly in older adults. Systolic blood pressure increases with age due to arterial stiffening, making it a stronger predictor of cardiovascular events in individuals over 50.
Isolated systolic hypertension, where systolic pressure is 130 mmHg or higher and diastolic pressure is below 80 mmHg, is common in older populations. This condition increases the risk of stroke, heart disease, and other complications if untreated. In younger individuals, diastolic blood pressure can provide additional prognostic information regarding cardiovascular risk.
While systolic pressure is a strong predictor of cardiovascular risk across all ages, the interplay between both numbers is crucial. Healthcare providers consider both measurements for a comprehensive assessment of hypertension and associated risks. The goal is to manage both numbers to reduce the overall strain on the cardiovascular system.
When to Seek Medical Advice
Regular blood pressure checks are essential, as hypertension often has no noticeable symptoms. Consult a healthcare professional if your blood pressure readings are consistently elevated, even if just above the normal range. Readings in the elevated category (120-129/<80 mmHg) warrant a discussion about lifestyle modifications. Immediate medical attention is necessary for a hypertensive crisis, defined as blood pressure readings higher than 180/120 mmHg. If you experience such readings with symptoms like chest pain, severe headache, shortness of breath, or vision changes, call emergency services promptly. Your doctor can help determine an appropriate treatment plan, including lifestyle changes and medication, to maintain your blood pressure within a healthy range.