Understanding 136/87 Blood Pressure in Simple Terms
High blood pressure, or hypertension, is a common health condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It occurs when the force of blood against the walls of your arteries is too high, putting extra strain on your heart and other organs. In most cases, high blood pressure doesn't cause any noticeable symptoms, which is why it's often called the "silent killer."
If you've been diagnosed with high blood pressure, you might be wondering what your blood pressure reading means. One of the most common readings you'll hear is 136/87. In this article, we'll explain what that means in simple terms and what you can do to improve your blood pressure.
What Does 136/87 Blood Pressure Mean?
When you get your blood pressure measured, you'll receive two numbers: the systolic pressure and the diastolic pressure. The systolic pressure is the top number, and it measures the pressure in your arteries when your heart beats. The diastolic pressure is the bottom number, and it measures the pressure in your arteries when your heart is at rest between beats.
A blood pressure reading of 136/87 means that your systolic pressure is 136 and your diastolic pressure is 87. This reading falls into the category of stage 1 hypertension, which means that your blood pressure is higher than normal and you're at increased risk of developing heart disease, stroke, and other health problems.
What Causes High Blood Pressure?
High blood pressure can be caused by a variety of factors, including:
- Being overweight or obese
- Eating a diet high in salt and processed foods
- Not getting enough physical activity
- Smoking cigarettes
- Drinking too much alcohol
- Having a family history of high blood pressure
- Stress
- Chronic conditions such as diabetes, kidney disease, and sleep apnea
How Can You Improve Your Blood Pressure?
If you have high blood pressure, there are several things you can do to improve your blood pressure and reduce your risk of developing complications:
- Lose weight if you're overweight or obese
- Eat a healthy diet that's low in salt and processed foods
- Get regular physical activity, such as brisk walking, swimming, or cycling
- Quit smoking
- Drink alcohol only in moderation
- Manage stress through relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or yoga
- Take medication as prescribed by your doctor
The Bottom Line
136/87 blood pressure is a reading that falls into the category of stage 1 hypertension. If you have high blood pressure, it's important to take steps to improve your blood pressure and reduce your risk of developing complications. Talk to your doctor about the best ways to manage your blood pressure and live a healthy, active life.
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