Hypertension, is often referred to as the silent killer because there usually aren’t any symptoms that lead you to believe anything is wrong. Most people with high blood pressure – even dangerously high blood pressure – are unaware they have it, though it’s possible you may exhibit such symptoms as dull headaches, nausea, dizziness, blurred vision or nosebleeds. Since symptoms often aren’t present, monitoring your blood pressure regularly is critical.
Have questions?
We’re here to help. Check out this Q&A from HonorHealth Medical Group to learn more about high blood pressure, monitoring for the condition and prevention strategies you can use to keep your blood pressure in the normal range.
Q. What do your blood pressure numbers mean?
A: The only way to know for sure if you have high blood pressure is to have your blood pressure screened. But then what? Understanding your results is key to controlling high blood pressure. Here’s what the American Heart Association considers normal, elevated and high:
- Normal blood pressure: Under 120/80.
- Elevated: 120-129/<80.
- Stage 1: 130-139/80-89.
- Stage 2: At least 140/at least 90.
Q: Why are there two numbers?
A: Your blood pressure is recorded as two numbers:
- The first number is your systolic blood pressure, which indicates how much pressure your blood is exerting against your artery walls when your heart beats.
- The second number is your diastolic blood pressure, which indicates how much pressure your blood is exerting against your artery walls when your heart is resting between beats.
Q. What is high blood pressure? It is the same as hypertension?
A: Yes, they're the same. It occurs when the force of blood pushing against your blood vessel walls is too high. This added pressure causes your heart to work too hard and blood vessels to function less effectively. Over time, the stress damages the tissues within your arteries. This can further damage your heart, cardiovascular system and other internal organs.
Q. Do you have to take medication if you have high blood pressure?
A: Not necessarily. A healthier lifestyle could make enough of a difference in lowering your blood pressure. Try these tips:
- Adopt a heart-healthy diet that includes more fresh fruits, vegetables and lean proteins. Reduce your intake of salt, carbohydrates and sugars.
- Maintain a healthy weight.
- Know your heart numbers.
- Stop smoking or using any nicotine products.
- Boost your physical activity.
- Watch your alcohol intake. Check with your doctor to see what's advisable.
If medicine is needed, the guidelines recommend earlier and more aggressive treatment to get blood pressure into the normal range quickly.
If your doctor says you need medication, though, it’s best to follow their advice instead of just trying to manage it yourself. Based on current guidelines, your doctor may recommend early and aggressive treatment to get your blood pressure into the normal range quickly, which will lessen your risk for heart-related problems in the future.