Understanding 113/72 Blood Pressure: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
When it comes to blood pressure, most people know that it's important to keep it within a healthy range. However, not everyone understands what the numbers mean or what blood pressure readings indicate about their health. If you have been told that your blood pressure is 113/72, you may be wondering what that means and whether it's a cause for concern.
What is Blood Pressure?
Blood pressure is the force of blood pushing against the walls of your arteries as your heart pumps it around your body. It's measured using two numbers: systolic pressure (the top number) and diastolic pressure (the bottom number). Systolic pressure reflects the pressure in your arteries when your heart contracts and pushes blood out, while diastolic pressure reflects the pressure in your arteries when your heart is at rest between beats.
What Does a Blood Pressure Reading of 113/72 Mean?
A blood pressure reading of 113/72 falls within the normal range for most adults. According to the American Heart Association, a normal blood pressure reading is less than 120/80. However, it's important to note that blood pressure can vary throughout the day and in response to different activities, such as exercise, stress, and caffeine consumption.
Causes of High Blood Pressure
While a blood pressure reading of 113/72 is considered normal, some people may experience higher blood pressure readings due to a variety of factors. Some common causes of high blood pressure include:
- Obesity or being overweight
- Lack of physical activity
- Smoking
- Excessive alcohol consumption
- Stress
- Genetics
- Age
- Chronic kidney disease
- Sleep apnea
Symptoms of High Blood Pressure
In most cases, high blood pressure does not cause any noticeable symptoms. That's why it's often referred to as the "silent killer." However, some people may experience symptoms such as:
- Headaches
- Shortness of breath
- Nosebleeds
- Dizziness
- Chest pain
Treatment for High Blood Pressure
If your blood pressure is consistently high, your doctor may recommend lifestyle changes and/or medication to help lower it. Some common lifestyle changes that can help include:
- Losing weight if you're overweight or obese
- Increasing physical activity
- Quitting smoking
- Limiting alcohol consumption
- Reducing stress
If lifestyle changes alone are not enough to lower your blood pressure, your doctor may also prescribe medication. Some common medications used to treat high blood pressure include:
- Diuretics
- Beta blockers
- ACE inhibitors
- ARBs
- Calcium channel blockers
Conclusion
A blood pressure reading of 113/72 is generally considered normal for most adults. However, it's important to monitor your blood pressure regularly and make lifestyle changes if necessary to keep it within a healthy range. If you have concerns about your blood pressure or are experiencing symptoms of high blood pressure, talk to your doctor. With the right treatment, you can lower your blood pressure and reduce your risk of developing serious health conditions.
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