Understanding 135/78 Blood Pressure: What You Need to Know
High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, is a common medical condition that affects millions of people worldwide. Blood pressure is the force exerted by blood against the walls of your arteries as it flows through your body. A normal blood pressure reading is around 120/80 mmHg, but readings can vary depending on various factors such as age, gender, and overall health.
If your blood pressure reading is consistently above the normal range, you may be diagnosed with hypertension. Hypertension can lead to serious health complications, including heart disease, stroke, and kidney failure. In this article, we will discuss a specific blood pressure reading of 135/78 and what it means for your health.
What Does 135/78 Blood Pressure Mean?
A blood pressure reading of 135/78 means that you have a systolic pressure of 135 mmHg and a diastolic pressure of 78 mmHg. The systolic pressure refers to the pressure in your arteries when your heart beats, while the diastolic pressure refers to the pressure in your arteries when your heart is at rest between beats.
A blood pressure reading of 135/78 falls within the category of elevated blood pressure. This means that your blood pressure is higher than normal but not high enough to be considered hypertension. However, an elevated blood pressure reading is still a cause for concern and should be monitored closely.
Causes of Elevated Blood Pressure
There are several factors that can contribute to elevated blood pressure, including:
- Family history of hypertension
- Poor diet
- Lack of exercise
- Obesity
- Smoking
- Stress
If you have a family history of hypertension, you may be more likely to develop high blood pressure. Similarly, a poor diet that is high in salt, fat, and cholesterol can contribute to elevated blood pressure. Lack of exercise, obesity, smoking, and stress can also increase your risk of developing hypertension.
How to Lower Your Blood Pressure
If you have an elevated blood pressure reading of 135/78, there are several things you can do to lower your blood pressure and reduce your risk of developing hypertension:
- Eat a healthy diet that is low in salt, fat, and cholesterol
- Exercise regularly
- Maintain a healthy weight
- Avoid smoking and limit alcohol consumption
- Reduce stress through relaxation techniques such as meditation or yoga
In addition to lifestyle changes, your doctor may also recommend medication to help lower your blood pressure. There are several types of blood pressure medications available, including diuretics, ACE inhibitors, and calcium channel blockers. Your doctor can help you determine which medication is right for you.
The Bottom Line
An elevated blood pressure reading of 135/78 is a cause for concern and should be monitored closely. By making lifestyle changes such as eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and reducing stress, you can lower your blood pressure and reduce your risk of developing hypertension. If lifestyle changes alone are not enough to lower your blood pressure, medication may also be necessary. Talk to your doctor about the best course of action for managing your blood pressure and maintaining good overall health.
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