Understanding 114/78 Blood Pressure: Causes, Symptoms and Treatment
With the increasing prevalence of hypertension, monitoring your blood pressure is essential. The standard blood pressure reading is expressed as two numbers, i.e., systolic and diastolic. 114/78 is a blood pressure reading where the top number (systolic pressure) is 114, and the bottom number (diastolic pressure) is 78. It falls within the normal range of blood pressure, indicating that your heart is functioning well. However, it's important to understand what causes blood pressure changes, symptoms to watch out for, and treatment options.
What Causes Blood Pressure Changes?
Blood pressure changes occur due to various factors, including lifestyle habits, genetics, and underlying medical conditions. Some of the common causes of blood pressure changes include:
- Stress
- Smoking
- High salt intake
- Obesity
- Alcohol consumption
- Diabetes
- Family history
These factors can cause your blood vessels to narrow, leading to an increase in blood pressure. When left unchecked, high blood pressure can damage your arteries, increasing the risk of heart attack, stroke, and other health complications.
Symptoms of High Blood Pressure
High blood pressure is often referred to as the "silent killer" because it rarely shows any symptoms. Most people discover they have high blood pressure during routine medical check-ups. However, in rare cases, high blood pressure can cause the following symptoms:
- Headaches
- Shortness of breath
- Chest pain
- Visual changes
- Blood in urine
- Pounding in the chest, neck, or ears
If you experience any of these symptoms, seek medical attention immediately as they may indicate a more severe medical condition.
Treatment Options for High Blood Pressure
The good news is that high blood pressure is treatable, and the treatment options depend on the underlying cause and severity of your condition. Some of the common treatment options include:
- Lifestyle changes such as regular exercise, healthy diet, and weight loss
- Medications such as diuretics, beta-blockers, and ACE inhibitors
- Surgery in severe cases
Your doctor will recommend the best treatment option based on your individual needs. It's important to follow your doctor's instructions and attend regular check-ups to monitor your blood pressure levels.
Conclusion
Understanding your blood pressure reading is crucial in managing your overall health. A reading of 114/78 is considered normal, but it's essential to monitor your blood pressure regularly, especially if you have underlying medical conditions or a family history of hypertension. By making lifestyle changes and following your doctor's instructions, you can manage high blood pressure and reduce the risk of severe health complications.
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