Understanding 139/79 Blood Pressure: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, is a common health problem 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 blood vessels. Blood pressure is measured using two numbers: systolic pressure (the top number) and diastolic pressure (the bottom number). A reading of 139/79 mmHg is considered to be prehypertension, which means that you are at an increased risk of developing high blood pressure.
The Causes of 139/79 Blood Pressure
There are many factors that can contribute to prehypertension, including:
- Unhealthy diet: Consuming too much salt, sugar, and saturated fat can increase your blood pressure.
- Lack of exercise: Being physically inactive can lead to weight gain and high blood pressure.
- Smoking: Nicotine in cigarettes can cause your blood vessels to narrow, increasing your blood pressure.
- Stress: Chronic stress can cause your body to produce more stress hormones, which can raise your blood pressure.
- Genetics: High blood pressure can run in families, so if your parents or siblings have it, you may be at a higher risk.
The Symptoms of 139/79 Blood Pressure
In most cases, prehypertension does not cause any symptoms. However, if your blood pressure is consistently high, you may experience:
- Headaches
- Dizziness
- Shortness of breath
- Chest pain
- Difficulty sleeping
- Visual changes
The Treatment of 139/79 Blood Pressure
If you have prehypertension, your doctor may recommend lifestyle changes to help lower your blood pressure. These may include:
- Eating a healthy diet: Incorporating more fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein into your diet can help reduce your blood pressure.
- Exercising regularly: Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise most days of the week.
- Quitting smoking: If you smoke, talk to your doctor about strategies to help you quit.
- Reducing stress: Try relaxation techniques such as meditation, deep breathing, or yoga.
- Losing weight: If you are overweight or obese, losing even a small amount of weight can help lower your blood pressure.
In some cases, medication may be necessary to control your blood pressure. Your doctor may prescribe:
- Diuretics: These medications help your body get rid of excess salt and water, which can lower your blood pressure.
- Beta blockers: These medications slow your heart rate and reduce the force of your heart's contractions, which can lower your blood pressure.
- Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors: These medications help relax your blood vessels, making it easier for blood to flow through them.
- Calcium channel blockers: These medications help relax your blood vessels and reduce the amount of calcium that enters your heart and blood vessel cells, which can lower your blood pressure.
Conclusion
Prehypertension may not cause any symptoms, but it is still a serious health concern that can increase your risk of developing high blood pressure and other health problems. By making lifestyle changes and following your doctor's treatment plan, you can help lower your blood pressure and reduce your risk of complications.
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