Understanding 135/88 Blood Pressure: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
High blood pressure is a common medical condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It is also known as hypertension, and it occurs when the force of blood against the walls of the arteries is too high. Blood pressure is measured in millimeters of mercury (mmHg) and is represented by two numbers, the systolic pressure (top number) and diastolic pressure (bottom number).
What is 135/88 Blood Pressure?
When a person has a blood pressure reading of 135/88 mmHg, it means that their systolic pressure is 135 mmHg, and their diastolic pressure is 88 mmHg. This reading falls under the category of stage 1 hypertension, according to the American Heart Association (AHA).
Stage 1 hypertension is defined as a blood pressure reading between 130-139 mmHg systolic and 80-89 mmHg diastolic. It is considered to be a mild form of high blood pressure but still requires medical attention to prevent it from worsening.
Causes of 135/88 Blood Pressure
There are several factors that can contribute to high blood pressure, including:
- Age
- Family history of high blood pressure
- Obesity or being overweight
- Lack of physical activity
- Smoking and tobacco use
- Excessive alcohol consumption
- Stress and anxiety
- Chronic kidney disease
- Adrenal and thyroid disorders
- Sleep apnea
It's important to note that some people may have high blood pressure even if they don't have any of these risk factors.
Symptoms of 135/88 Blood Pressure
High blood pressure is often referred to as a "silent killer" because it typically doesn't cause any symptoms until it reaches a severe stage. However, some people may experience symptoms such as:
- Headaches
- Dizziness
- Shortness of breath
- Chest pain
- Visual changes
- Blood in the urine
If you experience any of these symptoms, it's important to seek medical attention immediately.
Treatment of 135/88 Blood Pressure
The goal of treating high blood pressure is to lower the risk of complications such as heart attack, stroke, and kidney disease. Treatment options may include:
- Lifestyle changes such as eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, quitting smoking, and reducing alcohol consumption
- Medications such as diuretics, ACE inhibitors, beta-blockers, and calcium channel blockers
- Blood pressure monitoring and follow-up appointments with a healthcare provider
It's important to work with your healthcare provider to determine the best treatment plan for your individual needs.
Conclusion
High blood pressure is a serious medical condition that can lead to severe complications if left untreated. If you have a blood pressure reading of 135/88 mmHg, it's important to seek medical attention and work with your healthcare provider to develop a treatment plan that works for you. By making lifestyle changes and following a treatment plan, you can lower your blood pressure and reduce your risk of complications.
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