137 86 Blood Pressure: Understanding What It Means and What You Can Do About It
Have you recently had your blood pressure checked and found out that it is 137/86? If so, you may be wondering what this means and what you can do about it. In this article, we will discuss what blood pressure is, what a reading of 137/86 means, and what steps you can take to improve your blood pressure and overall health.
What is Blood Pressure?
Blood pressure is the force of blood pushing against the walls of your arteries as your heart pumps blood throughout your body. It is measured in millimeters of mercury (mmHg) and is expressed as two numbers: systolic pressure (the top number) and diastolic pressure (the bottom number).
The systolic pressure measures the pressure in your arteries when your heart beats, while the diastolic pressure measures the pressure in your arteries when your heart is at rest between beats. A normal blood pressure reading is typically around 120/80 mmHg.
What Does a Reading of 137/86 Mean?
A blood pressure reading of 137/86 is considered to be in the high-normal range. This means that while your blood pressure is not yet in the hypertensive range, it is higher than what is considered to be healthy. If left untreated, high blood pressure can lead to serious health problems such as heart disease, stroke, and kidney disease.
What Can You Do to Improve Your Blood Pressure?
If you have a blood pressure reading of 137/86, there are several steps you can take to improve your blood pressure and overall health:
- Exercise regularly: Exercise is one of the most effective ways to lower your blood pressure. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise most days of the week.
- Eat a healthy diet: A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean protein, and healthy fats can help lower your blood pressure.
- Lose weight: If you are overweight, losing even a small amount of weight can help lower your blood pressure.
- Reduce salt intake: Too much salt can raise your blood pressure. Aim for no more than 2,300 milligrams of sodium per day.
- Avoid smoking and limit alcohol consumption: Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption can both raise your blood pressure.
- Take medication if prescribed: If lifestyle changes alone are not enough to lower your blood pressure, your doctor may prescribe medication to help.
Conclusion
A blood pressure reading of 137/86 is considered to be in the high-normal range. If you have this reading, it is important to take steps to improve your blood pressure and overall health. By exercising regularly, eating a healthy diet, losing weight, reducing salt intake, avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption, and taking medication if prescribed, you can help lower your blood pressure and reduce your risk of serious health problems.
Post a Comment for "137 86 Blood Pressure: Understanding What It Means and What You Can Do About It"