A blood pressure reading of 112/89 millimeters of mercury (mm Hg) requires attention and discussion with a healthcare provider. Blood pressure is the force exerted by circulating blood against the walls of the body’s arteries. Understanding this measurement and its category is important because consistently high pressure can damage blood vessels over time. Knowledge of the specific categories helps manage health and determine appropriate next steps for risk reduction.
Defining Systolic and Diastolic Pressure
A blood pressure measurement consists of two numbers, reflecting the two distinct phases of the heart’s cycle. The top number, known as the systolic pressure, represents the maximum force against the artery walls when the heart contracts to pump blood out to the body. The bottom number, the diastolic pressure, measures the pressure in the arteries when the heart is at rest between beats. Both the systolic and diastolic numbers are important indicators of cardiovascular health. The overall classification is based on whichever reading is higher relative to the established thresholds.
Where 112/89 Falls on the Blood Pressure Scale
Medical organizations classify blood pressure readings into categories like Normal, Elevated, Stage 1 Hypertension, and Stage 2 Hypertension. Normal blood pressure is defined as a systolic reading less than 120 mm Hg and a diastolic reading less than 80 mm Hg.
The reading of 112/89 must be analyzed against these thresholds. The systolic pressure of 112 mm Hg falls within the Normal range (below 120 mm Hg). However, the diastolic pressure of 89 mm Hg exceeds the 80 mm Hg threshold, placing it squarely in the Stage 1 Hypertension range.
Stage 1 Hypertension is defined as having a systolic pressure between 130 and 139 mm Hg or a diastolic pressure between 80 and 89 mm Hg. Since the diastolic number of 89 mm Hg meets this criterion, the entire reading of 112/89 is classified as Stage 1 Hypertension. This classification means the pressure during the heart’s resting phase is consistently higher than considered healthy.
A diagnosis of hypertension is typically confirmed only after an average of two or more careful readings obtained on separate occasions. This initial reading signals that the blood pressure is elevated and requires a structured management plan.
Actionable Steps for Stage 1 Hypertension
For most individuals with Stage 1 Hypertension who do not have a high risk for cardiovascular disease, the initial recommendation involves intensive, non-pharmacological interventions. These lifestyle modifications can reduce blood pressure effectively, sometimes comparable to the effect of a single medication.
Dietary Changes
Dietary changes are a primary focus, often centered on the Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) eating plan. This diet emphasizes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and low-fat dairy while limiting saturated fat and cholesterol. Following this plan can lower systolic pressure by several millimeters of mercury.
Reducing sodium intake is a specific and powerful intervention. While the recommended limit is 2,300 mg per day, aiming for 1,500 mg per day offers a greater benefit in lowering blood pressure. Since most dietary sodium comes from processed foods, cooking at home more often is a practical way to control intake.
Physical Activity and Monitoring
Regular physical activity is strongly recommended, with a goal of at least 150 minutes per week of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise, such as brisk walking. This activity level results in measurable reductions in both systolic and diastolic pressure. Losing even a small amount of weight, particularly for those who are overweight, can also improve blood pressure control.
Managing chronic stress through techniques like mindfulness or deep breathing, and limiting alcohol consumption, are additional steps that support a healthier pressure reading. Men should aim for no more than two alcoholic drinks per day, and women no more than one. Consistent home monitoring of blood pressure, along with regular follow-up, is necessary to track the effectiveness of these changes and determine if medication may be needed.