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Approximately 75 million Americans have high blood pressure. Given the prevalence and seriousness of this issue, everyone should be aware of their blood pressure numbers and how to interpret them. The top number in a blood pressure reading is the systolic measurement, which gives the maximum pressure your heart exerts when beating. The bottom number is the diastolic measurement, which tells the amount of pressure in your arteries between beats. Below, you will find a brief guide to reading and understanding blood pressure.

Understanding Blood Pressure Numbers

Low

high blood pressureWhile low blood pressure (hypotension) may not seem alarming, it can be just as dangerous as high blood pressure, leading to dizziness, fainting, and, in some cases, death. A blood pressure reading below 90/60 is indicative of hypotension. Always consult your doctor if you receive low blood pressure readings.

Normal

Healthy, normal blood pressure should be around 120/80. This is a sign of a healthy heart, so keep maintaining a balanced diet and an active lifestyle. These are numbers you want to keep consistent, so eat plenty of vegetables and exercise for at least 30 minutes, five times a week.

Elevated

Elevated blood pressure ranges from 121 to 129 systolic and less than 80 diastolic. This places you on the border between normal and high blood pressure. Consider this a red flag that it's time to eat healthier, exercise regularly, and minimize stress.

Stage 1 Hypertension

Hypertension is the clinical term for high blood pressure. These readings fall between 130 and 139 systolic and 80 and 89 diastolic. Bear in mind that most doctors will only diagnose you with hypertension if these numbers are constant; a one-off or occasionally higher reading can often be the result of a momentary stressor, a recent burst of physical activity, or the effects of your morning coffee.

Stage 2 Hypertension

The second stage of hypertension comes with routinely higher blood pressure numbers, 140/90 or above. If your doctor has not yet recommended blood pressure medication, they likely will at this point. Beta-blockers, calcium channel blockers, and ACE inhibitors are all popular blood pressure prescriptions that will help regulate 

Hypertensive Crisis

A hypertensive crisis is a medical emergency. Blood pressure of 180/120 or higher is a sign of a possible cardiac event. If you receive these high numbers, wait a few minutes and take your blood pressure again just to make sure that it wasn't an error. If you get the same results, seek medical help immediately.

 

 

When you need high blood pressure medication, trust Columbia Hickory Pharmacy. They provide the Howard County, MD, area with all types of prescription medications, as well as over-the-counter pain relievers and allergy medicines. They also sell medical supplies like blood pressure testing kits and diabetic monitors and test strips. Call (410) 964-6409 or visit them online to refill a prescription today.

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