High blood pressure is
abnormally
high blood pressure with no known cause. Blood pressure measurements are read as two numbers:
Systolic pressure: higher number, normal reading is 120 millimeters of mercury (mmHg) or less
Diastolic pressure: lower number, normal reading is 80 mmHg or less
High blood pressure is defined as systolic pressure greater than 140 mmHg and/or diastolic pressure greater than 90 mmHg. You are considered
prehypertensive
if your systolic blood pressure is between 120-139 mmHg, or your diastolic pressure is between 80- 89 mmHg. Your doctor will recommend monitoring and lifestyle changes.
High blood pressure puts stress on the heart, lungs, brain, kidneys, and blood vessels. Over time, this condition can damage these organs and tissues.
High blood pressure is often diagnosed during a doctor's visit.
Blood pressure
is measured using an arm cuff and a special device. If your reading is high, you will come back for repeat checks. If you have three visits with readings over 140/90 mmHG, you will be diagnosed with high blood pressure.
Your doctor will order
tests to make sure your high blood pressure is not caused by another condition. You will also be tested to see if the high blood pressure has caused any problems.
Tests include:
Blood tests
Urine tests
Chest x-rays—a test that uses radiation to take a picture of structures inside the body
Electrocardiogram (ECG, EKG)—a test that records the heart's activity by measuring electrical currents through the heart muscle
Eat a
healthful diet, one that is low fat, low salt, and rich in fiber, fruits, and vegetables. Your doctor may recommend the
DASH diet, which is designed to reduce blood pressure.
Drink alcohol in moderation (no more than two drinks per day for men, one drink per day for women).
To help reduce your risk of getting high blood pressure, take the following steps:
Eat a well-balanced diet. The
DASH diet—rich in fruits, vegetables and low-fat dairy foods, and low in saturated fat, total fat, and cholesterol—may help keep your blood pressure in the healthy range.
Exercise regularly.
Maintain a healthy weight. (Your
body mass index
should be below 25.)
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This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.
