Blood Pressure 160/80: What Should I Do?
Blood pressure is a measure of the force that your blood exerts on the walls of your arteries as it flows through them. It is measured in millimeters of mercury (mmHg) and is expressed as two numbers: the systolic pressure (the higher number) and the diastolic pressure (the lower number).
When your blood pressure is 160/80 mmHg, it means that your systolic pressure is 160 mmHg and your diastolic pressure is 80 mmHg. This is considered to be high blood pressure, also known as hypertension.
What Causes High Blood Pressure?
There are many factors that can contribute to high blood pressure, including:
- Age
- Family history
- Obesity
- Lack of physical activity
- Smoking
- Stress
- High salt intake
- Excessive alcohol consumption
- Chronic kidney disease
- Adrenal and thyroid disorders
It is important to identify the underlying cause of your high blood pressure in order to determine the best course of treatment.
What Are the Health Risks of High Blood Pressure?
High blood pressure can cause damage to your arteries and other organs over time, including:
- Heart attack
- Stroke
- Kidney failure
- Eye damage
- Peripheral artery disease
It is important to monitor your blood pressure regularly and take steps to lower it if it is consistently high.
What Can I Do to Lower My Blood Pressure?
If your blood pressure is consistently high, there are several steps you can take to lower it, including:
- Adopting a healthy diet that is low in salt and saturated fat
- Engaging in regular physical activity
- Losing weight if you are overweight or obese
- Reducing your alcohol consumption
- Quitting smoking
- Managing stress through techniques such as meditation or yoga
In some cases, medication may also be necessary to lower your blood pressure. Your doctor can help you determine the best course of treatment for your individual needs.
When Should I Seek Medical Attention?
If your blood pressure is consistently high, it is important to monitor it regularly and seek medical attention if it is not responding to lifestyle changes or medication. You should also seek medical attention if you experience symptoms such as:
- Chest pain
- Shortness of breath
- Severe headache
- Blurred vision
- Difficulty speaking
- Nausea or vomiting
These symptoms may indicate a medical emergency, such as a heart attack or stroke.
Conclusion
High blood pressure can be a serious health condition, but it is also manageable with the right treatment and lifestyle changes. If your blood pressure is consistently high, talk to your doctor about the best course of treatment for your individual needs.
Remember to monitor your blood pressure regularly and seek medical attention if you experience any symptoms of a medical emergency.
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