Blood pressure measures the force of blood pushing against the walls of your arteries as your heart pumps. It is a fundamental indicator of cardiovascular health. This measurement involves two numbers: systolic and diastolic pressure.
The systolic pressure, the upper number, indicates the pressure in your arteries when your heart beats and pushes blood out. The diastolic pressure, the lower number, represents the pressure in your arteries when your heart rests between beats. Both measurements are expressed in millimeters of mercury (mmHg).
Interpreting Your Blood Pressure Reading
A blood pressure reading of 168/79 mmHg falls into the category of Stage 2 Hypertension. Normal blood pressure is less than 120 mmHg systolic and less than 80 mmHg diastolic.
Elevated blood pressure is indicated by a systolic reading between 120-129 mmHg and a diastolic reading less than 80 mmHg. Stage 1 Hypertension is diagnosed when systolic pressure is between 130-139 mmHg or diastolic pressure is between 80-89 mmHg.
While your diastolic pressure of 79 mmHg is within the normal or elevated range, the higher category (systolic) determines the overall classification. This reading indicates a significant elevation in the pressure exerted on your artery walls during heartbeats. This particular reading, where the systolic pressure is high but the diastolic pressure is relatively normal, is sometimes referred to as isolated systolic hypertension.
Immediate Steps and Health Implications
A 168/79 mmHg blood pressure reading warrants prompt medical attention. Individuals with readings in this range should consult a healthcare professional to discuss evaluation and management strategies. A diagnosis of high blood pressure is usually confirmed based on the average of two or more readings taken on separate visits.
Unmanaged high blood pressure can lead to serious short-term and long-term health complications. In the short term, increased strain on the heart and blood vessels can occur, though high blood pressure often has no symptoms. The heart has to work harder to pump blood, which can lead to the thickening of the heart muscle, a condition called left ventricular hypertrophy. This increased workload can also reduce the efficiency of blood flow to the heart muscle itself.
Over time, high blood pressure damages arteries throughout the body, making them less elastic and more prone to plaque buildup (atherosclerosis). This damage increases the risk of life-threatening events such as heart attack or stroke. Additionally, hypertension can impair kidney function, leading to chronic kidney disease or kidney failure. It can also affect vision by damaging blood vessels in the eyes (retinopathy), and contribute to peripheral artery disease, affecting blood flow to the limbs.
Lifestyle Approaches for Blood Pressure Control
Managing high blood pressure involves adopting specific lifestyle changes that can significantly impact your readings. Dietary adjustments are foundational, with the DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) eating plan often recommended. This approach emphasizes consuming fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, while limiting saturated and total fats. Reducing sodium intake is important, as high sodium consumption contributes to fluid retention and increased blood pressure. Aim for less than 2,300 milligrams of sodium per day, and ideally closer to 1,500 milligrams for most adults.
Regular physical activity helps lower blood pressure by strengthening the heart and improving blood vessel flexibility. Adults should aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity, such as brisk walking, or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity activity, like jogging, each week. Incorporating muscle-strengthening activities at least two days a week also offers benefits. Maintaining a healthy body weight is another impactful strategy, as excess weight places additional strain on the cardiovascular system. Even a modest weight loss can lead to noticeable reductions in blood pressure.
Limiting alcohol consumption is also advised, as excessive drinking can raise blood pressure. For those who drink, moderation is defined as up to one drink per day for women and up to two drinks per day for men. Managing stress through techniques like mindfulness, yoga, or deep breathing exercises can also contribute to lower blood pressure. These lifestyle modifications, when consistently applied, form a comprehensive strategy to support blood pressure control and overall cardiovascular health.