Your blood pressure is an important indicator of your overall health. Too high a reading can indicate a risk for heart disease and stroke and too low might explain why you feel tired and lethargic. While a high reading is of more concern than a low one, knowing your blood pressure can help you live a longer, healthier life.

What Is Blood Pressure?

The two numbers in your blood pressure reading measure different things. The systolic, or higher number, represents the pressure in your arteries while your heart contracts. The diastolic, or lower number, represents the pressure when your heart relaxes.

Stages Of Blood Pressure

Your blood pressure level is considered acceptable if the systolic reading is less than 120 and the diastolic reading is below 80. A reading of 120 to 139 systolic and 80 to 89 diastolic is considered to be in the prehypertension stage. Hypertension, or high blood pressure, has two stages. The first is indicated by readings of 140 to 159 systolic and 90 to99 diastolic. Second stage hypertension levels are 160 and above systolic and 100 and above diastolic. These stages are determined by an average reading level of three or more visits to your doctor.

Complications

Hypertension is a leading cause of heart disease and stroke. If left untreated, it can damage organs such as your heart and kidneys. Damage to your arteries, an aneurysm, heart failure, vision loss due to thickening of the blood vessels in your eyes and a blocked or ruptured blood vessel in your brain are some of the complications resulting from high blood pressure.

Treatments

Beta blockers and calcium channel blockers are common medications to control high blood pressure. Both block certain chemicals in your bloodstream and help to relax your blood vessels. Your doctor will determine which type is best for you based on your medical history.

Lifestyle Changes

Avoiding excessive salt, exercising and eating a low-fat diet will help to keep your blood pressure at a normal level and help you avoid gaining weight. Obesity often brings high blood pressure levels.

Source:

American Heart Association

American Heart Association

Mayo Clinic.com