Blood pressure is a crucial health measurement that can have a significant impact on your overall well-being. It affects how your blood moves through your arteries, which in turn impacts the functioning of your heart and organs. When blood pressure is too high or too low, it can lead to serious health problems such as heart disease, kidney damage, and stroke.
Understanding what your blood pressure numbers mean and how to manage them can empower you to take control of your health. In this blog, we’ll break down how blood pressure works, explain what your numbers represent, and offer strategies to help you manage high blood pressure through medications, lifestyle changes, and regular monitoring.
Blood pressure refers to the force exerted by your blood against the walls of your arteries as your heart pumps it throughout your body. It’s measured using two numbers:
Systolic Pressure (the first number): This is the pressure in your arteries when your heart beats and pumps blood. It represents the highest level of pressure.
Diastolic Pressure (the second number): This is the pressure in your arteries when your heart is at rest between beats. It represents the lowest level of pressure.
The two numbers are measured in millimeters of mercury (mm Hg). For example, a reading of 120/80 mm Hg is read as “120 over 80.”
Your blood pressure reading can tell you a lot about your heart health. Here’s what different blood pressure readings indicate:
Normal Blood Pressure: A normal reading is typically below 120/80 mm Hg. This is ideal and indicates that your heart and arteries are functioning properly.
Elevated Blood Pressure: Readings between 120-129 systolic and less than 80 diastolic are considered elevated. While this isn’t hypertension yet, it’s a warning sign that you may be at risk for developing high blood pressure.
Hypertension Stage 1: A reading between 130-139 systolic or 80-89 diastolic is considered stage 1 high blood pressure (hypertension). At this stage, you are at increased risk for heart disease and stroke.
Hypertension Stage 2: A reading of 140 or higher systolic or 90 or higher diastolic indicates stage 2 hypertension. This is a more severe form of high blood pressure and may require more intensive treatment.
Hypertensive Crisis: If your blood pressure is higher than 180 systolic or 120 diastolic, it’s considered a hypertensive crisis. Immediate medical attention is necessary, as this can lead to life-threatening conditions like heart attack or stroke.
When blood pressure is consistently high, it can cause significant damage to the body:
Heart Disease: High blood pressure forces your heart to work harder to pump blood, leading to the thickening and stiffening of the heart muscle. This can eventually lead to heart failure or other cardiovascular problems.
Stroke: High blood pressure can weaken and narrow your arteries, increasing the risk of stroke. A stroke occurs when blood flow to the brain is restricted or interrupted.
Kidney Damage: The kidneys are responsible for filtering waste and excess fluid from the body. High blood pressure can damage the blood vessels in the kidneys, leading to kidney disease or failure.
Vision Loss: Hypertension can damage the blood vessels in the eyes, leading to vision impairment or even blindness.
Managing high blood pressure involves a combination of medication, lifestyle changes, and regular monitoring. Here’s how you can take control of your blood pressure:
If your blood pressure is elevated or in the hypertensive range, medications are often prescribed to help bring it down and reduce your risk of complications. There are several types of medications used to treat high blood pressure:
Diuretics: Often called “water pills,” diuretics help reduce the amount of fluid in the body, thereby lowering blood pressure. Examples include hydrochlorothiazide and furosemide.
ACE Inhibitors: These medications, such as lisinopril, help relax blood vessels, making it easier for blood to flow through them.
Beta-Blockers: Drugs like metoprolol and atenolol work by slowing the heart rate, which reduces the heart’s workload and lowers blood pressure.
Calcium Channel Blockers: These medications, such as amlodipine, help relax and widen blood vessels to reduce blood pressure.
Angiotensin II Receptor Blockers (ARBs): Similar to ACE inhibitors, ARBs like losartan help relax blood vessels and are often used when ACE inhibitors cause side effects.
Alpha-Blockers: These medications, such as doxazosin, help reduce nerve signals that cause blood vessels to constrict.
Your healthcare provider will work with you to determine the best medication or combination of medications based on your specific needs and any underlying health conditions.
In addition to taking medications, lifestyle changes can play a major role in controlling blood pressure. Here are some important adjustments to consider:
Eat a Healthy Diet: The DASH diet (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) is recommended for managing high blood pressure. Focus on eating fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and low-fat dairy while reducing salt intake.
Exercise Regularly: Physical activity, such as walking, jogging, swimming, or cycling, helps lower blood pressure by improving heart health and circulation. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days of the week.
Limit Alcohol Intake: Drinking too much alcohol can raise blood pressure. It’s recommended to limit alcohol to one drink per day for women and two drinks per day for men.
Reduce Stress: Chronic stress can raise blood pressure. Try relaxation techniques such as yoga, meditation, deep breathing, or mindfulness to manage stress levels.
Quit Smoking: Smoking raises blood pressure and damages blood vessels. Quitting smoking can significantly improve heart health and help lower blood pressure over time.
Maintain a Healthy Weight: Being overweight increases the risk of high blood pressure. Losing even a small amount of weight can have a positive effect on your blood pressure.
Regular blood pressure monitoring is essential for understanding how well your treatment plan is working. You can track your blood pressure at home using an automated blood pressure cuff, and many pharmacies offer blood pressure screening services as well.
Home Monitoring: Keep track of your blood pressure readings at home to provide valuable information to your healthcare provider. This can help ensure that your medications are working and that your lifestyle changes are making an impact.
Doctor Visits: Regular check-ups with your healthcare provider are essential to assess your blood pressure, adjust medications as necessary, and prevent complications.
While making lifestyle changes and taking medications, there are also a few things you should avoid to prevent further complications:
Excessive Salt: Too much sodium can raise blood pressure. Avoid processed foods, fast food, and canned goods, which often contain high levels of salt.
Skipping Medications: Skipping doses of blood pressure medications can cause your blood pressure to spike. Always take your medications as prescribed and discuss any side effects with your doctor.
Ignoring Side Effects: Some blood pressure medications may cause dizziness or fatigue. If these side effects persist, consult your healthcare provider, as they may need to adjust your treatment plan.
Over-the-Counter Medications: Some over-the-counter medications, like nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), can raise blood pressure. Always check with your pharmacist before using any OTC medication.
Understanding your blood pressure numbers and how they impact your health is the first step in managing high blood pressure. With the right combination of medications, lifestyle changes, and regular monitoring, you can keep your blood pressure under control and reduce your risk of heart disease, stroke, and other serious health complications.
For personalized advice on managing your blood pressure or to schedule a blood pressure screening, reach out to our pharmacy at 323.937.2590.
