How high is blood pressure considered high blood pressure? Come and see what you need to know about high blood pressure
With the development of society, modern people's dietary structure, life and work pressure and other changes, the incidence of hypertension increases year by year, and the trend of youth, it is necessary to understand the prevention of hypertension related knowledge is very necessary.
How high is considered hypertension?
Newly released guidelines in the United States in 2017 state that hypertension can be diagnosed if the systolic blood pressure is above 130 mmHg or the diastolic blood pressure is above 80 mmHg. The current diagnostic criteria for hypertension in China are systolic blood pressure over 140 mmHg and/or diastolic blood pressure over 90 mmHg. Whether the latest new diagnostic criteria in the U.S. are applicable to the Chinese population requires further validation by experts in the medical field. Clinically, regardless of the criteria, 120/80 mmHg is recognized as good blood pressure. Therefore, it is recommended that all adults who have a blood pressure
The correct way to measure blood pressure
The diagnosis of hypertension relies heavily on the measurement of blood pressure, and proper measurement is essential. The blood pressure should be measured on both upper arms, the bladder should be emptied before measurement without holding urine, strenuous exercise is not advisable, and at least 5 minutes of quiet rest in a sitting position is required. It is most appropriate to measure blood pressure in the morning on an empty stomach. Another time period when blood pressure can be measured is from the afternoon to the evening. When measuring, use a seated position with the upper arm exposed or wear a thin single layer of clothing, do not roll up the sleeves, and have the upper arm at the same level as the heart. The cuff is tied tightly around the upper arm and the lower edge should be 2 to 3 cm above the bend of the elbow, about the width of a finger. The blood pressure can be measured 2 to 3 times at 1-minute intervals, and the average of the systolic and diastolic blood pressure is recorded as this measurement respectively.
Do I have to take blood pressure lowering medication for high blood pressure?
Good blood pressure control reduces cardiovascular risks such as stroke, coronary heart disease, and myocardial infarction. But again, these diseases are not just a consequence of high blood pressure, but are caused by a combination of risk factors. These include diabetes, abnormal lipid metabolism, obesity, smoking, and hyperuricemia. Improving lifestyle behaviors is essential to control blood pressure. Lose and control weight. Reduce sodium intake. Supplement calcium and potassium salts. Reduce fat intake. Increase exercise. Stop smoking and limit alcohol consumption. Reduce mental stress and maintain mental balance. These good behaviors can help control blood pressure even without the need for related medications.
The use of antihypertensive drugs must follow medical advice
Many hypertensive patients will find themselves taking more than 2 types of oral antihypertensive drugs at the same time, why should they? The commonly used antihypertensive drugs are mainly divided into 6 categories. The antihypertensive effect is related to age, dietary habits, etiology and co-morbidities. The antihypertensive effect of the same antihypertensive drug is limited, and an increase in dose may aggravate the side effects, so a combination of drugs is needed. It is not recommended for hypertensive patients to adjust the type of medication on their own. If you feel that your blood pressure is not well controlled, or if you experience side effects after taking the medication, it is recommended that you visit your doctor as soon as possible so that he or she can adjust the medication and dosage according to the specific situation. Blood pressure in some patients changes with mental status, lifestyle, diet, and season. In winter blood pressure will be higher and in summer it will be lower, and the antihypertensive medication can be adjusted appropriately. It is important to monitor the blood pressure level regularly and adjust the medication according to the fluctuation of blood pressure to be the appropriate treatment plan.
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