Blood pressure measures the force of blood against artery walls. This pressure changes throughout the day based on activity, emotions, and rest. Understanding and consistently monitoring your blood pressure is important for cardiovascular health, helping to identify potential concerns early.
Understanding Blood Pressure Numbers
A blood pressure reading consists of two numbers, systolic over diastolic, measured in millimeters of mercury (mmHg). The top number, systolic pressure, represents the force of blood against artery walls when your heart contracts and pushes blood out.
The bottom number, diastolic pressure, reflects the pressure in your arteries when your heart relaxes between beats and refills with blood. For instance, a reading of 120/80 mmHg indicates a systolic pressure of 120 and a diastolic pressure of 80.
Interpreting 106/85 Blood Pressure
A blood pressure reading of 106/85 mmHg indicates that your systolic pressure (106 mmHg) falls within a healthy range, generally considered less than 120 mmHg. However, your diastolic pressure (85 mmHg) places this reading into the Hypertension Stage 1 category. According to the American College of Cardiology and American Heart Association guidelines, Hypertension Stage 1 is defined as a systolic pressure between 130-139 mmHg OR a diastolic pressure between 80-89 mmHg. Since your diastolic reading of 85 mmHg falls within this range, the overall blood pressure is classified as Stage 1 hypertension.
It is important to understand that if your systolic and diastolic numbers fall into different categories, the higher category determines your overall classification. While a 106/85 mmHg reading is not an immediate medical crisis, it does signify an elevated risk for cardiovascular events and indicates a need for proactive management. This classification suggests that while your heart is pumping efficiently, the pressure in your arteries when your heart is at rest is higher than desired. Consulting a healthcare professional for personalized advice and confirming the diagnosis with multiple readings over time is recommended.
Steps to Manage Blood Pressure
Managing blood pressure, especially in Hypertension Stage 1, often begins with targeted lifestyle modifications. Adopting a heart-healthy diet, such as the Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) eating plan, involves reducing sodium intake to less than 1,500 milligrams per day, and increasing potassium-rich foods like fruits and vegetables.
Regular physical activity plays a significant role in blood pressure management. Engaging in aerobic exercises like brisk walking, jogging, or swimming helps improve heart health and can contribute to maintaining a healthy weight. Maintaining a healthy body weight or achieving modest weight loss can lead to reductions in both systolic and diastolic blood pressure.
Limiting alcohol consumption and quitting smoking are additional steps that can positively impact blood pressure levels. Stress management techniques, such as yoga or meditation, can also help lower overall stress levels, which indirectly benefits blood pressure. Consistent communication with a doctor for ongoing monitoring is important, and medication may be considered if lifestyle changes alone do not achieve the desired blood pressure goals within about six months.