Understanding 143 90 Blood Pressure: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

High blood pressure is a common medical condition that affects many people worldwide. In the United States, approximately one in every three adults has high blood pressure, also known as hypertension. One of the most common blood pressure readings is 143/90, which is considered to be in the stage 1 hypertension category. In this article, we will discuss what this blood pressure reading means, its causes, symptoms, and treatment options.

What Is Blood Pressure?

Blood pressure is the force of blood pushing against the walls of the arteries as the heart pumps blood through the body. It is measured in millimeters of mercury (mmHg) and is typically expressed as two numbers - systolic pressure (top number) and diastolic pressure (bottom number). Systolic pressure is the pressure in the arteries when the heart beats, and diastolic pressure is the pressure when the heart is at rest between beats.

Normal blood pressure is usually less than 120/80 mmHg. A blood pressure reading of 120-139/80-89 mmHg is considered to be in the prehypertension category, while a reading of 140/90 mmHg or higher is considered to be in the hypertension category.

What Does 143/90 Blood Pressure Mean?

A blood pressure reading of 143/90 mmHg is considered to be in the stage 1 hypertension category. Stage 1 hypertension means that your blood pressure is elevated and may increase your risk of developing heart disease, stroke, and other health problems.

Causes of High Blood Pressure

There are many factors that can contribute to high blood pressure, including:

• Age
• Family history of high blood pressure
• Being overweight or obese
• Physical inactivity
• Smoking
• Stress
• Excessive alcohol consumption
• High salt intake
• Chronic kidney disease
• Thyroid disorders

In some cases, high blood pressure may be caused by an underlying medical condition, such as sleep apnea, adrenal gland tumors, or certain medications.

Symptoms of High Blood Pressure

High blood pressure often has no symptoms, which is why it is sometimes referred to as the "silent killer." However, some people with high blood pressure may experience symptoms such as:

• Headaches
• Dizziness
• Shortness of breath
• Chest pain
• Visual changes

If you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to speak with your healthcare provider.

Treatment for High Blood Pressure

The goal of treating high blood pressure is to lower your blood pressure to a healthy range and reduce your risk of developing health problems. Treatment may include lifestyle changes, medications, or a combination of both.

Lifestyle changes that can help lower blood pressure include:

• Getting regular exercise
• Eating a healthy diet that is low in salt and saturated fat
• Losing weight if you are overweight or obese
• Reducing stress
• Limiting alcohol consumption
• Stopping smoking

If lifestyle changes alone are not enough to lower your blood pressure, your healthcare provider may prescribe medications such as:

• Diuretics
• Beta-blockers
• ACE inhibitors
• Calcium channel blockers
• Angiotensin II receptor blockers

It is important to take your medications as prescribed and to follow up regularly with your healthcare provider to monitor your blood pressure and adjust your treatment plan as needed.

Conclusion

High blood pressure, including a blood pressure reading of 143/90 mmHg, is a common medical condition that can increase your risk of developing heart disease, stroke, and other health problems. Lifestyle changes and medications can help lower your blood pressure and reduce your risk of health problems. If you have high blood pressure, it is important to work with your healthcare provider to develop a treatment plan that is right for you.