Understanding 125/84 Blood Pressure: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
High blood pressure, or hypertension, is a common health problem affecting millions of people worldwide. Blood pressure readings are measured in two numbers, with the first number representing the systolic blood pressure and the second number representing the diastolic blood pressure. A reading of 125/84 mmHg is considered to be in the pre-hypertension range, which means that blood pressure is higher than normal but not yet in the high blood pressure range.
What is Blood Pressure?
Blood pressure is the force of blood against the walls of arteries as it flows through the body. It is measured in millimeters of mercury (mmHg) and is expressed as two numbers, with the first number representing the systolic blood pressure and the second number representing the diastolic blood pressure. The systolic pressure is the pressure in the arteries when the heart beats, while diastolic pressure is the pressure in the arteries when the heart is at rest between beats.
What Causes High Blood Pressure?
There are several factors that can contribute to high blood pressure, including:
- Smoking
- Being overweight or obese
- Lack of physical activity
- High salt intake
- Stress
- Family history of high blood pressure
- Age
- Chronic kidney disease
- Sleep apnea
What are the Symptoms of High Blood Pressure?
High blood pressure is often called the "silent killer" because it often has no symptoms. In rare cases, extremely high blood pressure can cause symptoms such as:
- Headaches
- Shortness of breath
- Nosebleeds
- Flushing
- Dizziness
However, these symptoms are not specific to high blood pressure and can be caused by other health problems.
How is High Blood Pressure Diagnosed?
High blood pressure is usually diagnosed with a blood pressure monitor, which measures the systolic and diastolic pressures. A diagnosis of pre-hypertension is given when the blood pressure is consistently between 120/80 mmHg and 139/89 mmHg. A diagnosis of hypertension is given when the blood pressure is consistently 140/90 mmHg or higher.
How is Pre-Hypertension Treated?
If you have pre-hypertension, you can take steps to lower your blood pressure and reduce your risk of developing high blood pressure. These steps include:
- Losing weight if you are overweight or obese
- Eating a healthy diet that is low in salt and high in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
- Getting regular exercise
- Limiting alcohol consumption
- Managing stress
- Quitting smoking
If these lifestyle changes are not enough to lower your blood pressure, your doctor may recommend medication to help lower your blood pressure.
How is High Blood Pressure Treated?
If you have high blood pressure, you will need to make lifestyle changes and, in most cases, take medication to lower your blood pressure. Lifestyle changes that can help lower blood pressure include:
- Losing weight if you are overweight or obese
- Eating a healthy diet that is low in salt and high in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
- Getting regular exercise
- Limiting alcohol consumption
- Managing stress
- Quitting smoking
There are several types of medication that can be used to lower blood pressure, including:
- Diuretics
- Beta blockers
- Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors
- Angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs)
- Calcium channel blockers
Your doctor will work with you to determine the best treatment plan for your individual needs.
Conclusion
While a blood pressure reading of 125/84 mmHg is considered to be in the pre-hypertension range, it is still important to take steps to lower your blood pressure and reduce your risk of developing high blood pressure. By making lifestyle changes and, if necessary, taking medication, you can help keep your blood pressure within a healthy range and reduce your risk of heart disease, stroke, and other health problems.
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