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When is blood pressure too high?
High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, is a condition that occurs when the force exerted by the blood against the artery walls is consistently too high, requiring the heart to work harder to pump blood throughout the body.
According to the American Heart Association, blood pressure is divided into four general categories.
- Normal blood pressure
- 120/80 mm Hg
- This is considered as the ideal blood pressure.
- Elevated blood pressure
- The systolic (upper number) is 120 – 129 mm Hg
- The diastolic (lower number) is < 80 mm Hg
- Stage I hypertension:
- The systolic is 130 – 139 mm Hg
- The diastolic is 80 – 89 mm Hg
- Stage II hypertension
- The systolic is > 140 mm Hg
- The diastolic is > 90 mm Hg
A blood pressure reading exceeding 180/120 mm Hg is considered a hypertensive crisis and requires immediate medical attention.
What are the complications of high blood pressure?
If you have hypertension and it is left untreated, your condition may lead to serious health problems that include:
- Stroke
- Heart attack
- Angina
- Peripheral artery disease
- Kidney disease or kidney failure
- Vision loss
- Sexual dysfunction
What are the treatment options for high blood pressure?
Elevated blood pressure
Your doctor may recommend modifying or adjusting your lifestyle if you have elevated blood pressure:
- Maintain a healthy weight.
- Consume a healthy diet, balanced diet: The DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) approach is a dietary plan that emphasises the consumption of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, fish, poultry, nuts, legumes, and low-fat dairy. These foods are rich in nutrients such as potassium, magnesium, calcium, fibre, and protein.
- Reduce your salt intake: Limiting your sodium intake to less than 6g of salt per day is ideal.
- Get enough potassium: Foods rich in potassium include bananas, avocados, and potatoes (with skin).
- Do some exercises: You should consult with your doctor before starting an exercise routine. Begin with at least 30 minutes of physical activity each day, and consider incorporating resistance training, such as lifting light weights, for additional benefits to your health.
- Limit your alcohol intake.
- Stop smoking.
- Get adequate sleep.
- Manage stress.
- Stay hydrated.
- Monitor your blood pressure.
Stage I and II hypertension
However, if your blood pressure consistently measures above 140/90mmHg (or 135/85mmHg at home) and your risk of other health issues is significant, medications will be recommended alongside lifestyle modifications to reduce your blood pressure.
If your blood pressure consistently exceeds 160/100mmHg, medication will also be offered along with lifestyle changes. Medications include:
- Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors
- Angiotensin-2 receptor blockers (ARBs)
- Calcium channel blockers
- Diuretics
- Beta-blockers
Long-term use of blood pressure medication may be necessary, and your doctor may consider reducing or discontinuing treatment if your blood pressure remains well-managed over several years.
It is crucial to adhere to your medication schedule as prescribed, as missing doses can compromise its effectiveness.
How long does it take to lower blood pressure? Can I lower high blood pressure quickly?
Lowering blood pressure typically requires consistent effort over time rather than quick fixes. Lifestyle changes such as maintaining a healthy diet, exercising regularly, managing stress, limiting alcohol intake, and quitting smoking can gradually lower blood pressure.
However, the exact time frame for seeing significant reductions varies among individuals and depends on factors like the severity of hypertension and adherence to recommended changes.
While some changes may lead to immediate improvements, it generally takes several weeks to months of consistent effort to achieve significant and sustained reductions in blood pressure.
How to lower blood pressure during pregnancy?
If you suspect you have high blood pressure due to pregnancy, visit your doctor for a consultation before taking any sort of action.
- Receive regular prenatal care. Go to every appointment with your doctor or a medical professional.
- It is crucial to consult your doctor before stopping or starting any medication, including over-the-counter drugs.
- Monitor your blood pressure at home with a home digital blood pressure monitor. Get in touch with your doctor immediately if your blood pressure is higher than usual or if you are experiencing symptoms of preeclampsia.
- Continue to consume healthy foods and maintain a weight that is healthy for you.
Make an appointment at Pantai Hospitals
Get in touch with us to book an appointment today if you suspect you have high blood pressure or are experiencing symptoms or have concerns or questions regarding lowering your high blood pressure.
A dedicated team of expert cardiologists at Pantai Hospitals is available for consultation to provide the best care and assistance. We assure you the best possible care tailored to your specific needs.
Pantai Hospital has been accredited by the Malaysian Society for Quality in Health (MSQH) for its commitment to patient safety and service quality.
