In general, a reading of 140 over 90 is considered “high.” 120 over 80 up to 139 over 89 is usually considered “pre-hypertension.” The top number is called the systolic pressure.
Why are these numbers that important? As we age, hypertension tends to be more prevalent. In fact, it is estimated that up to two thirds of the population over age 65 have high blood pressure. Some even believe the increase begins around age 50.
If not treated, hypertension can continue to put strain on the heart which can then increase the chances of heart attacks or strokes.
Other organs can be affected as well such as the kidneys.
Systolic pressure is the measurement of the force of blood through the arteries with heart beats. Diastolic (which measures the force of blood in the arteries while the heart rests) does not have to be “high” for high blood pressure to exist if the systolic reading measures high. Isolated systolic high blood pressure describes this situation.
While both the systolic and diastolic readings are necessary for hypertension to be diagnosed, the diastolic tends to go down as people age. Therefore, the systolic reading is especially important.
A confirmation of chronic hypertension can be assessed by a medical professional. Typically your blood pressure will be checked and checked again.
Understand that one does not have to necessarily feel symptoms in order to have high blood pressure. It is known as the “silent killer” as many people do not feel particularly poorly yet suffer from the problem.
One concern for many people when it comes to checking their blood pressure with a doctor is the likelihood of prescribed medications or rather the side effects that accompany those medications. This concern should also be shared with your doctor.
Voicing this apprehension may not mean the doctor will necessarily change his or her opinion of prescribing medication. This is a major complaint when is comes to many Western physicians.
In fairness though, many doctors worry that certain dietary and physical changes will not be followed through on by the patient. Therefore, medication becomes the first line of defense.
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Hypertension is probably the single biggest cause for modern diseases. Discover how to cure high blood pressure naturally using three simple exercises. Or read more about how to lower blood pressure on the blood pressure blog.
