139 77 Blood Pressure: What It Means and How to Manage It
When you have your blood pressure checked, you'll notice that it's represented by two numbers. The first number is the systolic pressure, which measures the force of blood against your arteries when your heart beats. The second number is the diastolic pressure, which measures the force of blood against your arteries when your heart is at rest between beats. A blood pressure reading of 139/77 mm Hg can be concerning, but it doesn't necessarily mean that you have high blood pressure.
What Is Considered High Blood Pressure?
High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, is a condition in which the force of blood against your artery walls is consistently too high. If your blood pressure consistently reads 140/90 mm Hg or higher, then you may have hypertension. However, a blood pressure reading of 139/77 mm Hg is considered prehypertension, which means that you're at risk of developing high blood pressure if you don't take steps to manage it.
What Causes Prehypertension?
Prehypertension can be caused by a variety of factors, including genetics, lifestyle choices, and underlying health conditions. Some risk factors for prehypertension and hypertension include:
- Being overweight or obese
- Smoking
- Not getting enough physical activity
- Eating a diet high in sodium and low in potassium
- Having a family history of hypertension
- Having sleep apnea
- Having diabetes
- Experiencing chronic stress
How Can You Manage Prehypertension?
If your blood pressure consistently reads 139/77 mm Hg, it's important to take steps to manage it before it progresses to hypertension. Here are some things you can do:
- Eat a healthy diet that's low in sodium and high in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
- Get regular exercise, such as brisk walking, cycling, or swimming
- Lose weight if you're overweight or obese
- Avoid smoking and limit your alcohol intake
- Manage stress through relaxation techniques, such as meditation or yoga
- Get enough sleep
- Monitor your blood pressure regularly at home or at your doctor's office
- Talk to your doctor about medication if your blood pressure remains high despite lifestyle changes
Conclusion
A blood pressure reading of 139/77 mm Hg may be a cause for concern, but it's not necessarily an indication of high blood pressure. Prehypertension can be managed through lifestyle changes, such as eating a healthy diet, getting regular exercise, and managing stress. If you're concerned about your blood pressure, talk to your doctor about the best ways to monitor and manage it.
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