Understanding 138/91 Blood Pressure: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, is a common health condition that affects millions of people worldwide. According to the American Heart Association, about one in three adults in the United States has high blood pressure. One of the most common blood pressure readings is 138/91. In this article, we'll take a closer look at what this blood pressure reading means, its causes, symptoms, and treatment.

What is 138/91 Blood Pressure?

When you have your blood pressure taken, you'll be given two numbers, such as 138/91. The first number represents your systolic blood pressure, which is the pressure in your arteries when your heart beats and pumps blood. The second number represents your diastolic blood pressure, which is the pressure in your arteries when your heart is resting between beats.

So, a blood pressure reading of 138/91 means that your systolic blood pressure is 138 mm Hg (millimeters of mercury) and your diastolic blood pressure is 91 mm Hg. This reading is considered to be in the stage 1 hypertension range, which means that your blood pressure is higher than normal but not yet considered to be severe.

Source: bing.com

Causes of 138/91 Blood Pressure

There are several factors that can contribute to high blood pressure, including:

• Family history of high blood pressure
• Age
• Being overweight or obese
• Lack of physical activity
• Smoking
• High salt intake
• Stress
• Chronic conditions such as diabetes and kidney disease

In some cases, high blood pressure can also be caused by certain medications or medical conditions such as sleep apnea or thyroid problems.

Symptoms of 138/91 Blood Pressure

High blood pressure is often called the "silent killer" because it typically has no symptoms. However, if your blood pressure is consistently high, you may experience:

• Headaches
• Dizziness
• Nosebleeds
• Shortness of breath
• Chest pain

If you experience any of these symptoms, it's important to see your doctor as soon as possible.

Treatment for 138/91 Blood Pressure

If you have high blood pressure, there are several things you can do to help lower it, including:

• Adopting a healthy diet that is low in salt and high in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
• Exercising regularly
• Losing weight if you are overweight or obese
• Limiting alcohol
• Managing stress

In some cases, medication may also be necessary to help lower blood pressure. Your doctor will be able to recommend the best course of treatment for you based on your individual situation.

Source: bing.com

Conclusion

A blood pressure reading of 138/91 is considered to be in the stage 1 hypertension range and can have serious health consequences if left untreated. If you have high blood pressure, it's important to work with your doctor to develop a treatment plan that works for you. By making healthy lifestyle changes and following your doctor's recommendations, you can help lower your blood pressure and reduce your risk of complications.