Understanding 137/83 Blood Pressure: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
High blood pressure, also known as 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 consistently too high, which can lead to serious health complications if left untreated. One of the most important metrics that doctors use to diagnose and monitor hypertension is blood pressure readings, which are expressed as two numbers: the systolic pressure (top number) and the diastolic pressure (bottom number).
Understanding Blood Pressure Readings
Blood pressure readings are measured in millimeters of mercury (mm Hg) and are expressed as two numbers. The systolic pressure is the top number, which measures the force of blood against your artery walls when your heart beats. The diastolic pressure is the bottom number, which measures the force of blood against your artery walls when your heart is at rest between beats.
Normal blood pressure is typically defined as a systolic pressure of less than 120 mm Hg and a diastolic pressure of less than 80 mm Hg. Hypertension is diagnosed when your blood pressure consistently measures higher than these levels. A reading of 137/83 mm Hg, for example, is considered to be in the early stages of hypertension.
Causes of High Blood Pressure
There are several risk factors that can contribute to the development of hypertension, including:
- Age: Blood pressure tends to increase as you get older
- Obesity: Being overweight or obese can put extra strain on your heart and blood vessels
- Family history: If your parents or other close relatives have hypertension, you may be more likely to develop it
- Smoking: Smoking can damage your blood vessels and increase your risk of hypertension
- Stress: Chronic stress can increase your blood pressure over time
- Unhealthy diet: A diet high in sodium, fat, and cholesterol can increase your risk of hypertension
Symptoms of High Blood Pressure
One of the most dangerous aspects of hypertension is that it often has no symptoms until it reaches a severe stage. However, some people with high blood pressure may experience:
- Headaches
- Dizziness
- Shortness of breath
- Chest pain
- Irregular heartbeat
- Visual changes
If you experience any of these symptoms, it's important to see a doctor right away to get your blood pressure checked.
Treatment for High Blood Pressure
Hypertension can be treated with a combination of lifestyle changes and medications. Some lifestyle changes that can help lower your blood pressure include:
- Losing weight if you are overweight or obese
- Eating a healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein
- Reducing your sodium intake
- Getting regular exercise
- Reducing your alcohol consumption
- Quitting smoking
If these lifestyle changes are not enough to bring your blood pressure down to a healthy level, your doctor may recommend medications such as:
- Diuretics: These medications help your body get rid of excess salt and water, which can lower your blood pressure
- Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors: These medications relax your blood vessels, making it easier for blood to flow through them
- Beta blockers: These medications slow your heart rate, reducing the force of your heart's contractions and lowering your blood pressure
- Calcium channel blockers: These medications relax your blood vessels and may also slow your heart rate
Conclusion
High blood pressure is a serious health condition that can lead to heart attack, stroke, and other complications if left untreated. If you have a blood pressure reading of 137/83 mm Hg or higher, it's important to see a doctor to get your blood pressure checked and determine the best course of treatment for you. By making lifestyle changes such as eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and quitting smoking, you can help lower your blood pressure and reduce your risk of complications.
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