102 71 blood pressure. Blood Pressure 102/71: Understanding Hypotension and Its Implications
What does a blood pressure reading of 102/71 indicate. How does hypotension affect your health. When should you be concerned about low blood pressure. What are the symptoms of hypotension. How can you raise your blood pressure naturally.
Decoding Blood Pressure Readings: What Does 102/71 Mean?
Blood pressure is a vital sign that provides crucial information about your cardiovascular health. A reading of 102/71 mmHg indicates hypotension, or low blood pressure. This condition occurs when the systolic pressure (upper number) falls below 105 mmHg and the diastolic pressure (lower number) is under 60 mmHg.
Is a blood pressure of 102/71 cause for concern? In most cases, slightly low blood pressure isn’t a major health issue, especially if you’re not experiencing any symptoms. However, it’s important to understand the implications and potential risks associated with hypotension.
The Spectrum of Blood Pressure: From Hypertension to Hypotension
To fully grasp the significance of a 102/71 blood pressure reading, it’s crucial to understand the spectrum of blood pressure measurements:
- Normal blood pressure: 120/80 mmHg
- Pre-hypertension: 120/80 to 140/90 mmHg
- Hypertension (Stage 1): 140/90 to 160/90 mmHg
- Hypertension (Stage 2): 160/90 mmHg and higher
- Hypotension: Below 90/60 mmHg
While much attention is often given to high blood pressure (hypertension), low blood pressure can also have significant health implications.
Symptoms and Risks of Hypotension: When Should You Be Concerned?
Low blood pressure doesn’t always cause noticeable symptoms, but when it does, they can be quite disruptive. Common symptoms of hypotension include:
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Fainting (syncope)
- Blurred vision
- Nausea
- Fatigue
- Lack of concentration
- Rapid, shallow breathing
- Clammy, pale skin
In severe cases, extreme hypotension can lead to shock, a life-threatening condition that requires immediate medical attention. Symptoms of shock may include confusion, rapid but weak pulse, and cold, clammy skin.
Causes of Low Blood Pressure: Unraveling the Mystery
Understanding the underlying causes of hypotension is crucial for effective management. Some common factors that can contribute to low blood pressure include:
- Dehydration
- Blood loss
- Certain medications (e.g., diuretics, beta-blockers)
- Endocrine disorders (e.g., thyroid problems, adrenal insufficiency)
- Heart problems
- Pregnancy
- Nutritional deficiencies (e.g., vitamin B12 or folic acid)
- Neurological conditions
Identifying the root cause of your low blood pressure is essential for determining the appropriate course of action.
Natural Ways to Raise Blood Pressure: Lifestyle Modifications
If you’re experiencing symptoms of low blood pressure, there are several natural methods you can try to raise your blood pressure:
- Increase fluid intake: Staying well-hydrated helps maintain blood volume.
- Consume more salt: Sodium can help raise blood pressure, but consult your doctor first.
- Eat smaller, more frequent meals: This can prevent post-meal blood pressure drops.
- Wear compression stockings: These can help prevent blood pooling in the legs.
- Avoid sudden position changes: Stand up slowly to prevent dizziness.
- Exercise regularly: Physical activity can improve circulation and blood pressure regulation.
Always consult with your healthcare provider before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle, especially if you have other health conditions.
The Role of Diet in Managing Blood Pressure
Nutrition plays a crucial role in maintaining healthy blood pressure levels. For those with hypotension, certain dietary modifications may help:
- Increase iron intake: Iron-rich foods can help prevent anemia, a potential cause of low blood pressure.
- Consume more B-vitamins: Vitamin B12 and folate are essential for red blood cell production.
- Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water and electrolyte-rich fluids.
- Moderate caffeine intake: Caffeine can temporarily boost blood pressure.
- Consider licorice tea: It may help raise blood pressure, but consult your doctor first.
Remember, while these dietary changes may help, they should be implemented under medical supervision, especially if you have other health conditions.
When to Seek Medical Attention for Low Blood Pressure
While mildly low blood pressure often doesn’t require treatment, there are instances when you should seek medical attention:
- If you experience frequent symptoms like dizziness or fainting
- If your blood pressure drops suddenly
- If low blood pressure is accompanied by severe symptoms like confusion or cold, clammy skin
- If you have a history of heart disease or other chronic conditions
Your healthcare provider can perform a thorough evaluation to determine the cause of your low blood pressure and recommend appropriate treatment options.
Diagnostic Tests for Hypotension
To diagnose the underlying cause of low blood pressure, your doctor may recommend several tests:
- Blood tests to check for anemia or hormonal imbalances
- Electrocardiogram (ECG) to assess heart function
- Echocardiogram to evaluate heart structure and function
- Stress test to observe blood pressure changes during exercise
- Tilt table test to evaluate how your body responds to changes in position
These tests can provide valuable insights into the root cause of your hypotension and guide treatment decisions.
Treatment Options for Chronic Hypotension
If lifestyle modifications and addressing underlying causes don’t sufficiently raise your blood pressure, your doctor may recommend medical treatments:
- Fludrocortisone: This medication helps increase blood volume.
- Midodrine: This drug helps tighten blood vessels and raise blood pressure.
- Droxidopa: Used primarily for neurogenic orthostatic hypotension.
- IV fluids: In severe cases, intravenous fluids may be necessary to quickly raise blood pressure.
The choice of treatment depends on the underlying cause and severity of your hypotension. Your healthcare provider will work with you to develop an individualized treatment plan.
Monitoring Blood Pressure at Home
Regular monitoring of your blood pressure can help you and your healthcare provider manage hypotension effectively. Consider these tips for accurate home blood pressure measurements:
- Use a validated, automated blood pressure monitor.
- Measure at the same time each day, preferably in the morning and evening.
- Avoid caffeine, alcohol, and exercise for 30 minutes before measuring.
- Sit quietly for 5 minutes before taking your reading.
- Support your arm at heart level during measurement.
- Take multiple readings and record the average.
Keeping a log of your blood pressure readings can help identify patterns and guide treatment decisions.
Living with Hypotension: Adapting Your Lifestyle
Managing low blood pressure often requires long-term lifestyle adjustments. Here are some strategies to help you cope with chronic hypotension:
- Plan your day to avoid prolonged standing or sitting.
- Rise slowly from lying or sitting positions.
- Stay cool in hot weather to prevent heat-related blood pressure drops.
- Avoid alcohol, as it can lower blood pressure further.
- Wear compression stockings to improve circulation.
- Stay physically active, but avoid sudden, strenuous exercises.
By incorporating these habits into your daily routine, you can minimize the impact of hypotension on your quality of life.
Hypotension and Exercise: Finding the Right Balance
Regular physical activity is crucial for overall health, but it requires special consideration for those with hypotension. Here’s how to exercise safely:
- Start slowly and gradually increase intensity.
- Focus on exercises that improve circulation, like walking or swimming.
- Avoid exercises that involve rapid position changes.
- Stay hydrated before, during, and after exercise.
- Cool down properly to prevent post-exercise blood pressure drops.
- Monitor your blood pressure before and after workouts.
Always consult your healthcare provider before starting a new exercise regimen, especially if you have chronic hypotension.
The Impact of Stress on Blood Pressure
While stress is often associated with high blood pressure, it can also affect those with hypotension. Chronic stress can lead to fluctuations in blood pressure and exacerbate symptoms of low blood pressure. Managing stress through techniques such as meditation, deep breathing exercises, or yoga can help stabilize blood pressure levels.
Stress Management Techniques for Hypotension
Consider incorporating these stress-reduction strategies into your daily routine:
- Practice mindfulness meditation
- Engage in regular physical activity
- Maintain a consistent sleep schedule
- Pursue hobbies and activities you enjoy
- Connect with friends and family for social support
- Consider cognitive-behavioral therapy if stress is significantly impacting your life
By managing stress effectively, you can help minimize its impact on your blood pressure and overall health.
The Connection Between Sleep and Blood Pressure
Quality sleep plays a crucial role in regulating blood pressure. For individuals with hypotension, poor sleep can exacerbate symptoms and make management more challenging. Here are some tips for improving sleep quality:
- Maintain a consistent sleep schedule
- Create a relaxing bedtime routine
- Ensure your bedroom is dark, quiet, and cool
- Avoid caffeine and alcohol close to bedtime
- Limit screen time before sleep
- Consider elevating the head of your bed slightly to improve circulation
If you continue to experience sleep disturbances, consult your healthcare provider, as they may be related to your hypotension or indicate another underlying condition.
The Role of Postural Changes in Hypotension
Orthostatic hypotension, a sudden drop in blood pressure upon standing, is a common concern for those with chronic low blood pressure. Understanding how to manage these positional changes is crucial:
- Rise slowly from lying or sitting positions
- Flex your calf muscles before standing to improve blood flow
- Hold onto a stable object when changing positions
- Avoid prolonged standing, especially in hot environments
- Consider wearing compression stockings to prevent blood pooling in the legs
By implementing these strategies, you can reduce the risk of dizziness and fainting associated with sudden positional changes.
Hypotension in Special Populations: Pregnancy and Older Adults
Certain groups may be more susceptible to hypotension or experience it differently. Let’s explore two key populations:
Hypotension During Pregnancy
Low blood pressure is common during pregnancy, especially in the first and second trimesters. While usually harmless, it can cause dizziness and fainting. Pregnant women with hypotension should:
- Stay well-hydrated
- Rise slowly from sitting or lying positions
- Avoid standing for long periods
- Eat small, frequent meals to maintain blood sugar levels
- Wear loose, comfortable clothing
Always consult with your obstetrician about any concerns related to blood pressure during pregnancy.
Hypotension in Older Adults
Older adults are more susceptible to hypotension, particularly orthostatic hypotension. This can increase the risk of falls and injuries. Elderly individuals with low blood pressure should:
- Take extra care when changing positions
- Stay hydrated and avoid alcohol
- Review medications with their doctor, as some may contribute to low blood pressure
- Consider using a cane or walker for added stability
- Engage in regular, gentle exercise to improve circulation
Regular check-ups are crucial for older adults to monitor and manage their blood pressure effectively.
The Future of Hypotension Management: Emerging Treatments and Research
As our understanding of hypotension evolves, new treatment approaches are being explored. Some promising areas of research include:
- Novel pharmaceutical agents targeting specific mechanisms of blood pressure regulation
- Wearable devices for continuous blood pressure monitoring and early intervention
- Personalized treatment plans based on genetic and environmental factors
- Non-invasive neuromodulation techniques to regulate blood pressure
- Advanced compression garments with smart technology for better management of orthostatic hypotension
While these innovations are still in development, they offer hope for more effective management of hypotension in the future.
The Importance of Ongoing Research
Continued research into hypotension is crucial for improving diagnosis, treatment, and quality of life for affected individuals. Current areas of focus include:
- Understanding the long-term effects of chronic hypotension on organ systems
- Investigating the relationship between hypotension and cognitive function
- Developing more accurate and convenient methods for blood pressure monitoring
- Exploring the potential benefits of dietary supplements in managing hypotension
- Studying the impact of environmental factors on blood pressure regulation
By staying informed about the latest research and treatment options, individuals with hypotension can work with their healthcare providers to optimize their management strategies.
Most of us are familiar with the term Hypertension or High Blood Pressure and it is a term that is often used to emphasize the stress of a situation. You may hear someone say something like, “Don’t do that! You’re getting my blood pressure up! Or, Boy that was crazy! My blood pressure probably went through the roof!” We often laugh at stressful situations but are these statements just a play on words about our health or is there some truth to them? There are gold standard measurements for blood pressure readings; guidelines that we use to determine whether someone actually has hypertension. In general, a blood pressure reading of 120/80 is considered a normal pressure. Readings from 120/80 to 140/90 can be considered pre-hypertensive; 140/90 to 160/90 and higher can be considered hypertensive and these readings can be broken down further into Stage 1 and Stage 2. It is important to understand that these numbers by themselves do not necessarily indicate a problem. First, a blood pressure constantly changes and is a fluid piece of information. It can be affected by stress, diet, and emotional state. When we encounter a patient having high readings during their office visit we usually recommend that they take readings at home for one to two weeks in the morning before any of the daily stresses have set in and again in the afternoon so we can compare the readings. Second, it is important to understand that there is much more that goes into a diagnosis and a treatment plan for hypertension than just a number. This is why annual visits with your Primary Care Provider are so important. By obtaining a thorough history from our patients and understanding their lifestyles we can identify the probable cause of elevated blood pressures and tailor a treatment regimen. This can but does not always have to involve medication. Finally, it is important to understand that measuring blood pressures is one of many tools in our primary care bag to help prevent heart disease, stroke, and many other problems. We encourage you to come talk to us today about maintaining your health with annual preventative screenings. Call Eldorado Family Health anytime to make an appointment at 505-216-7772. |
My Blood Pressure is 102/71
Blood pressure 102/71 – what does it mean?
Your blood pressure reading of 102/71 indicates Hypotension. This means your blood pressure is lower than the usual with values at a systolic (upper) value under 105 mmHg and a diastolic (lower) value of under 60 mmHg.
However, in most cases this is no reason to be concerned. If your blood pressure is only slightly under said values and there are no health impairments a hypotense blood pressure might be alright.
By the way: Your diastolic value of 71 mmHg is better than your systolic value and would classify as Ideal. But if you are getting two different types of classification for your blood pressure it is correct to choose the one that is considered worse.
What you should know about a blood pressure of 102/71
Low blood pressure rarely causes any severe symptoms, but some patients experience debilitating side effects. The recommended blood pressure reading for healthy adults is 90 (systolic) over 60 mm Hg (diastolic). Your blood pressure of 102/71 is below the recommended range and considered low blood pressure. Fainting episodes and dizzy spells are two common symptoms associated with dangerously low blood pressure or BP. This condition is known as hypotension and can have life-threatening consequences if left unchecked. Several health-related conditions and life events can cause BP levels to drop. In some cases, an underlying medical condition, surgical disorders, or dehydration might be responsible.
Symptoms:
- Fatigue
- Poor concentration
- Nausea
- Dizziness
- Blurred vision
- Fainting
If a patient experiences extreme hypotension, it can trigger symptoms such as palpitations, confusion, pale skin, and breathing difficulty. It is wise to seek medical attention if this happens because it can result in shock.
How to raise blood pressure quickly?
- Increase aggregate sodium intake. Table salt has a balanced amount of sodium content, which can help boost BP levels instantaneously. However, patients should consult their physician before adding more salt to the diet. High salt consumption can sometimes be dangerous and life-threatening.
- Eat wholesome, well-balanced meals to maintain a healthy diet. Sometimes low BP is triggered by poor eating habits and nutrient deficiencies. A lack of iron, folic acid, and vitamin B- 12 is a leading cause of anemia. If the body is not making an adequate volume of blood, it could lower pressure levels.
- Drink more water. Mild dehydration can lower blood pressure activity, which causes hypotension in extreme cases. Sometimes, sickness involving frequent vomiting, diarrhea, excess sweating, and fever may result in dehydration. In such circumstances, an adequate intake of water to rehydrate the body is necessary. For long-term benefits, those affected must maintain a healthy water drinking habit to stabilize low BP levels.
What are some healthy lifestyle changes to improve low blood pressure long-term?
Controlling low blood pressure naturally can sometimes be challenging, but equally doable with the right self-intervention measures. Numerous studies say regular exercise can have positive effects on cardiovascular health, which in turn can balance low blood pressure. However, individuals should avoid exercising in extreme heat and outdoors, especially during the summer months. Researchers also advise against prolonged rest and spending long hours in the steam room, sauna, or hot tub. Also, compression socks can improve blood flow throughout the body and boost blood pressure levels.
High blood pressure (hypertension) – NHS
High blood pressure, or hypertension, rarely has noticeable symptoms. But if untreated, it increases your risk of serious problems such as heart attacks and strokes.
Around a third of adults in the UK have high blood pressure, although many will not realise it.
The only way to find out if your blood pressure is high is to have your blood pressure checked.
Information:
Coronavirus advice
What is high blood pressure?
Blood pressure is recorded with 2 numbers. The systolic pressure (higher number) is the force at which your heart pumps blood around your body.
The diastolic pressure (lower number) is the resistance to the blood flow in the blood vessels.
They’re both measured in millimetres of mercury (mmHg).
As a general guide:
- high blood pressure is considered to be 140/90mmHg or higher (or 150/90mmHg or higher if you’re over the age of 80)
- ideal blood pressure is usually considered to be between 90/60mmHg and 120/80mmHg
Blood pressure readings between 120/80mmHg and 140/90mmHg could mean you’re at risk of developing high blood pressure if you do not take steps to keep your blood pressure under control.
Everyone’s blood pressure will be slightly different. What’s considered low or high for you may be normal for someone else.
Risks of high blood pressure
If your blood pressure is too high, it puts extra strain on your blood vessels, heart and other organs, such as the brain, kidneys and eyes.
Persistent high blood pressure can increase your risk of a number of serious and potentially life-threatening health conditions, such as:
If you have high blood pressure, reducing it even a small amount can help lower your risk of these health conditions.
Check your blood pressure
The only way of knowing whether you have high blood pressure is to have a blood pressure test.
All adults over 40 are advised to have their blood pressure checked at least every 5 years.
Getting this done is easy and could save your life.
You can get your blood pressure tested at a number of places, including:
- at your GP surgery
- at some pharmacies
- as part of your NHS Health Check
- in some workplaces
You can also check your blood pressure yourself with a home blood pressure monitor.
Find out more about getting a blood pressure test
Things that can increase your risk of getting high blood pressure
It’s not always clear what causes high blood pressure, but there are things that can increase your risk.
You might be more at risk if you:
- are overweight
- eat too much salt and do not eat enough fruit and vegetables
- do not do enough exercise
- drink too much alcohol or coffee (or other caffeine-based drinks)
- smoke
- do not get much sleep or have disturbed sleep
- are over 65
- have a relative with high blood pressure
- are of black African or black Caribbean descent
- live in a deprived area
Making healthy lifestyle changes can sometimes help reduce your chances of getting high blood pressure and help lower your blood pressure if it’s already high.
Treatment for high blood pressure
Doctors can help you keep your blood pressure to a safe level using:
- lifestyle changes
- medicines
What works best is different for each person.
Talk to your doctor to help you decide about treatment.
This patient decision aid (PDF, 132kb) can also help you to understand your treatment options.
Lifestyle changes to reduce blood pressure
These lifestyle changes can help prevent and lower high blood pressure:
Some people with high blood pressure may also need to take 1 or more medicines to stop their blood pressure getting too high.
Medicines for high blood pressure
If you’re diagnosed with high blood pressure, your doctor may recommend taking 1 or more medicines to keep it under control.
These come as tablets and usually need to be taken once a day.
Common blood pressure medicines include:
The medicine recommended for you will depend on things like how high your blood pressure is, your age and your ethnicity.
Page last reviewed: 23 October 2019
Next review due: 23 October 2022
New Blood Pressure Guidelines Mean Yours Might Be Too High Now
Heart experts released new guidelines for blood pressure on Monday and that means millions more Americans will now be diagnosed with high blood pressure.
Anyone with blood pressure higher than 130/80 will be considered to have hypertension, or high blood pressure, the American Heart Association and American College of Cardiology said in releasing their new joint guidelines.
“It’s very clear that lower is better,” said Dr. Paul Whelton of Tulane University, who chaired the committee that wrote the guidelines.
Everyone, even people with normal blood pressure, should watch their diet and exercise to keep blood pressure from going up, the new guidelines stress. And smoking is a major blood pressure risk.
Blood pressure of 120/80 or above is considered elevated; 130/80 to 139/89 is now considered Stage 1 hypertension and anything 140/90 or above will be considered stage 2 hypertension. If blood pressure reaches 180/120 or higher — and either number in the blood pressure reading counts — people will be classified as in hypertensive crisis with need for immediate treatment or hospitalization.
Previously, people were not considered to have high blood pressure until the top reading hit 140. “Normal hasn’t changed. We are still saying that it is great and it is normal to have a systolic blood pressure reading below 120 and a diastolic reading under 80,” Whelton said.
Related: High Blood Pressure Diagnoses Increase Among Teens
“Rather than one in three U.S. adults having high blood pressure (32 percent) with the previous definition, the new guidelines will result in nearly half of the U.S. adult population (46 percent) having high blood pressure, or hypertension,” the groups said in a joint statement.
Instead of recommending drug treatment right away, the organizations recommend that people with stage 1 hypertension try lifestyle changes first: exercising more, eating less salt, and eating more fruit, vegetables and whole grains.
“Lifestyle modification is the cornerstone for treatment of hypertension,” said Dr. Robert Carey of the University of Virginia, who helped write the guidelines. Other research, including a new study released just this week, shows the American Heart Association’s DASH diet lowers blood pressure and reduces people’s risk of stroke and heart failure.
A doctor speaks to a patient as a sphygmomanometer, or blood pressure meter, lies on his desk.Adam Berry / Getty Images file
Related: Study Confirms Lower Blood Pressure is Better
Drinking fewer than two drinks a day for men and one drink a day for women also lowers heart risk, Carey said, as does getting enough potassium from foods such as bananas — not from supplements.
While people may be confused by the change, the heart experts said three years of reviewing the research showed that many fewer people die if high blood pressure is treated earlier.
“We are comfortable with the recommendations. They are based on strong evidence,” Whelton said.
Carey said about 4.2 million more people would be diagnosed with high blood pressure under the new guidelines, but not all of them will be advised to take drugs — just 1.9 percent more, he said.
“We will have a big jump in prevalence but you’ll notice only a small increase in the number of people we believe will benefit from hypertensive drugs,” Carey said.
High blood pressure damages blood vessels and can lead to organ damage such as kidney and heart failure, as well as heart attacks and stroke. It’s one of the leading killers around the world as well as across the United States.
Many drugs are used to treat high blood pressure. They include diuretics, beta-blockers and ACE inhibitors, which attack blood pressure from different directions. The groups agreed that even elderly and frail patients benefit from having high blood pressure treated.
Maggie Fox
Maggie Fox is a senior writer for NBC News and TODAY, covering health policy, science, medical treatments and disease.
Blood Pressure Chart: Low, Normal, High Reading by Age
Published : 2017-11-19 – Updated : 2021-04-10
Author : Disabled World – Contact: Disabled World (Disabled-World.com)
🛈 Synopsis : Blood pressure table showing if adults and children have high, low, or healthy average blood pressure range for their age, includes other helpful cardiac related information. Systolic Pressure is the blood pressure reading when your heart beats. This reading is always the the first or top number. Diastolic Pressure is blood pressure measurement when your heart relaxes. This is always the the second or bottom number.
Main Digest
High blood pressure often does not cause any signs of illness that you can see or feel. Which is why it is important to make an appointment with your doctor – or other healthcare provider – to check your blood pressure.
It is recommended that you get your blood pressure checked at least once every year by a healthcare provider. If you have been diagnosed with high blood pressure (or other related conditions), your doctor may recommend that you get it checked more often.
What Does Blood Pressure Refer To?
Blood pressure refers to the force exerted by circulating blood on the walls of blood vessels and constitutes one of the bodies principal vital signs.
The pressure of the circulating blood decreases as blood moves through your arteries, arterioles, capillaries, and veins. The term blood pressure generally refers to your arterial pressure, i.e., the pressure in the larger arteries, arteries being the blood vessels which take blood away from the heart.
Blood pressure is always given as two numbers;
- Systolic Pressure (when the heart beats)
- Diastolic Pressure (when the heart relaxes)
When the measurements are written, both are written as one above, or before, the other with the systolic being the first number, for example 120/75 (120 over 75).
Blood pressure measurement is NOT the same as your heart rate (pulse) or maximum heart rate measurement. Check what your heart rate for your age should be. You can calculate your predicted maximum heart rate by using the calculation: 220 – (age) = Age Predicted Maximum Heart Rate – or see our Target Heart Rate Calculator and Chart.
Measuring Your Blood Pressure
Healthcare professionals use a stethoscope and a manual sphygmomanometer to measure your blood pressure. Typically they take the reading above your elbow. The sphygmomanometer has a bladder, cuff, bulb, and a gauge. When the bulb is pumped it inflates the bladder inside the cuff, which is wrapped around your arm. This inflation will stop the blood flow in your arteries.
The stethoscope is used to listen for sound of the heartbeat, and no sound indicates that there is no flow. As the pressure is released from the bladder, you will hear the sound of the blood flowing again. That point becomes your blood pressure systolic reading. The diastolic reading is when you hear no sound again, which means that the blood flow is back to normal.
What is Classified as LOW Blood Pressure?
Low Blood Pressure Range | ||
---|---|---|
Blood pressure that is too low is known as Hypotension. | ||
Systolic pressure (mm Hg) | Diastolic pressure (mm Hg) | Pressure Range |
90 | 60 | Borderline Low blood Pressure |
60 | 40 | Too Low Blood Pressure |
50 | 33 | Dangerously Low Blood Pressure |
What is Classified as NORMAL Blood Pressure?
Normal Blood Pressure Range | ||
---|---|---|
Systolic pressure (mm Hg) | Diastolic pressure (mm Hg) | Pressure Range |
130 | 85 | High Normal Blood Pressure |
120 | 80 | Normal Blood Pressure |
110 | 75 | Low Normal Blood Pressure |
What is Classified as HIGH Blood Pressure?
High Blood Pressure Range | ||
---|---|---|
If one or both numbers are usually high, you have high blood pressure (Hypertension). | ||
Systolic pressure (mm Hg) | Diastolic pressure (mm Hg) | Stages of High Blood Pressure |
210 | 120 | Stage 4 |
180 | 110 | Stage 3 |
160 | 100 | Stage 2 |
140 | 90 | Stage 1 |
Download a printable blood pressure chart.
What Should Blood Pressure be According to Age?
Approx. Ideal BP According to Age Chart | ||
---|---|---|
Age | Female | Male |
1 – 2 | 80/34 – 120/75 | 83/38 – 117/76 |
3 | 100/59 | 100/61 |
4 | 102/62 | 101/64 |
5 | 104/65 | 103/66 |
6 | 105/68 | 104/68 |
7 | 106/70 | 106/69 |
8 | 107/71 | 108/71 |
9 | 109/72 | 110/72 |
10 | 111/73 | 112/73 |
11 | 113/74 | 114/74 |
12 | 115/74 | 116/75 |
13 | 117/75 | 117/76 |
14 | 120/75 | 119/77 |
15 | 120/76 | 120/78 |
16 | 120/78 | 120/78 |
17 | 120/80 | 120/78 |
18 | 120/80 | 120/80 |
19-24 | 120/79 | 120/79 |
25-29 | 120/80 | 121/80 |
30-35 | 122/81 | 123/82 |
36-39 | 123/82 | 124/83 |
40-45 | 124/83 | 125/83 |
46-49 | 126/84 | 127/84 |
50-55 | 129/85 | 128/85 |
56-59 | 130/86 | 131/87 |
60+ | 134/84 | 135/88 |
Download a printable blood pressure by age chart.
What Causes High Blood Pressure?
A diagnosis of high or low blood pressure requires only one measurement, either systolic or diastolic, or both, to be outside the healthy range. For many people who with higher than normal blood pressure there is no obvious cause why their blood pressure is high. Some factors that may contribute to high BP include:
- Aging
- Stress
- Smoking
- Genetics
- Sleep apnea
- Too much salt
- Being overweight
- Lack of exercise
- Chronic kidney disease
- Adrenal and thyroid disorders
- High average alcohol consumption
- Family history of high blood pressure
Signs of high blood pressure include, headache dizziness, pounding in ears, and a bloody nose. These symptoms typically don’t occur until high blood pressure has reached an advanced and even a possibly life threatening stage.
Symptoms of a Heart Attack
The heart requires blood to bring oxygen, and nutrients to its muscle tissue. The narrowing of the arteries due to blockage can cause high blood pressure. If this blockage occurs in the arteries of the heart, coronary arteries, heart muscle damage can occur, resulting in a heart attack.
Some heart attacks are sudden and intense, however most heart attacks start slowly with mild pain and discomfort. Most heart attacks involve discomfort in the center of the chest that lasts more than a few minutes, or that goes away and comes back. It can feel like uncomfortable pressure, squeezing, fullness or pain. Shortness of breath may occur, as well as nausea, or lightheadedness. It is vital to get help immediately if any of these symptoms occur.
Symptoms of a Stroke
The brain requires unobstructed blood flow to nourish its many functions. Very high, sustained blood pressure will eventually cause blood vessels to weaken. Over time these weaken vessels can break, and blood will leak into the brain. The area of the brain that is being fed by these broken vessels start to die, and this will cause a stroke. Additionally, if a blot clot blocks a narrowed artery, blood ceases to flow and a stroke will occur.
Symptoms of a stroke include sudden numbness or weakness of the face, arm or leg, especially on one side of the body, confusion, trouble speaking, or seeing, sudden severe headache. If you or someone with you has one or more of these signs, don’t delay, call 911.
Risk Factors for Cardiovascular Disease
- You have diabetes.
- Your diet is high in saturated fats.
- You consume more than two alcoholic drinks per day.
- You have high blood pressure or need medication to control your blood pressure.
- You have high cholesterol levels or need medication to control your cholesterol level.
- You exercise less than 30 minutes per day – Inactivity puts a person at higher risk of developing heart disease.
- You are overweight – Persons that have an excess of body fat are at a higher risk than persons of normal weight.
- You are over 40 or a post-menopausal woman – Risk of heart disease increases over the age of 45 in males, over 55 in females.
- Family History – Children of parents that developed heart disease before the age of 55 have a higher risk of developing heart disease.
- You smoke – Cigarette smokers are at greater risk than pipe and cigar smokers, but all forms of tobacco are proven to be detrimental to the hearts health.
If you answered yes to one or more of the above, you should talk to your doctor about how you can reduce your risk through lifestyle modifications. Your doctor will determine if preventative therapies such as ASPIRIN 81mg are right for you.
Blood Pressure Medications
There are several types of blood pressure medications and if one doesn’t work, then ask your doctor to switch to another until your blood pressure becomes stable.
- Adalat – A dihydropyridine calcium blocker. It is mostly used for treating hypertension and Angina Pectoris. Other conditions that benefit from Adalat are Raynaud’s phenomenon, Tetanus and Angina Pectoris. Brand names of the drug include Procardia and Nifedical.
- Aldactone – While regularly prescribed for high-blood-pressure patients, the drug can also be prescribed along with other drugs. However, the drug is useful only for controlling, rather than curing, high blood pressure.
What is Angina?
Angina is a form of heart disease where the blood flow to the heart is restricted by a blockage in one or more of the arteries that carry blood into the heart. Usually, the first sign Angina is a pain in the chest, not unlike a squeezing or pressing sensation.
Printable Average Blood Pressure Reading Chart
Printable Average Blood Pressure Reading Chart.
Printable Blood Pressure By Age Chart
Printable Blood Pressure By Age Chart.
Related Medical Calculators Documents
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Cite Page: Journal: Disabled World. Language: English (U.S.). Author: Disabled World. Electronic Publication Date: 2017-11-19 - Revised: 2021-04-10. Title: Blood Pressure Chart: Low, Normal, High Reading by Age, Source: <a href=https://www.disabled-world.com/calculators-charts/bloodpressurechart.php>Blood Pressure Chart: Low, Normal, High Reading by Age</a>. Retrieved 2021-04-13, from https://www.disabled-world.com/calculators-charts/bloodpressurechart.php - Reference: DW#286-13153.
Blood Pressure | Women’s Heart Health Centre
KNOW | UNDERSTAND | ACT
How does blood pressure relate to cardiovascular disease?
Blood pressure is the result of circulating blood exerting pressure against the walls of your arteries. This pressure is very important because it allows the blood to flow through the arteries and deliver nutrients to all the organs of your body. Blood pressure is determined by the amount of blood your heart pumps and the amount of resistance to blood flow in your arteries. The more blood your heart pumps and the more narrow your arteries, the higher your blood pressure.
Your blood pressure is recorded as two numbers (for example, 124/85 mm Hg, as shown in the graphic). The top number is the systolic and the bottom the diastolic. These values are measured in millimeters of mercury (mm Hg).
- The systolic value represents your heart “at work,” the pressure exerted when your heart beats and fills your arteries with blood.
- The diastolic value represents your heart “at rest,” between beats. During this phase, your heart fills with blood in advance of the next beat.
Healthy blood pressure
Optimal blood pressure is a reading of lower than 120/80. When your blood pressure numbers are consistently greater than 135/85, you’re considered to have high blood pressure, or hypertension (but if you have diabetes or kidney disease, 130/80 is considered a high reading).
In addition to your normal, or “ideal,” blood pressure values, there are three categories of blood pressure — hypertension, pre-hypertension, and hypotension — each of which has a different impact on your health.
Hypertension
Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is present when there are consistent measures that exceed 135/85 (or readings higher than 130/80 for people with diabetes or kidney disease). This indicates that to reduce your risk of developing a serious condition, like heart disease, you should make significant lifestyle changes, including even medication, to lower your blood pressure.
High blood pressure, or hypertension, makes your heart work a lot harder and, while doing so, causes excess force on your artery walls. Any added force can damage arteries and increase your risk of developing cardiovascular disease.
High blood pressure contributes to cardiovascular disease through the scarring of artery walls where plaque can build up and narrow the vessels. This causes a type of cardiovascular disease known as coronary artery disease. A narrowing artery can become completely blocked, leading to a heart attack. Also, plaques can break away from the artery wall and cause a blockage elsewhere.
High blood pressure has been called the silent killer because it often has no warning signs or symptoms.
People with high blood pressure are often not aware they have it until they are diagnosed by a health care professional. You could have high blood pressure for years without knowing it, putting you at greater risk for cardiovascular disease and organ damage. If damage has occurred, you may have symptoms that include:
- Headache
- Shortness of breath
- Tiredness
- Nausea
- Vomiting
Pre-hypertension
Pre-hypertension indicates you have slightly surpassed the ideal target values and are at increased risk of developing high blood pressure, which may require medical therapy. If your systolic blood pressure is between 120 and 135 and/or your diastolic is between 80 and 85, you should take the necessary steps to decrease your blood pressure
Hypotension
Hypotension, otherwise known as low blood pressure, is a reading of less than 90/60. It can be just as serious and dangerous as high blood pressure and should not be ignored. Hypotension indicates that the force of your blood flow is inadequate, and this could mean certain of your vital organs are not receiving enough blood. Hypotension is a medical concern only if it causes signs or symptoms or is linked to a serious condition, such as heart disease. People who take certain high blood pressure medications, such as diuretics, have an increased risk for low blood pressure.
What is considered low blood pressure may vary from person to person. Low blood pressure can be considered “normal pressure” to some people who have low blood pressure all the time. In this case, they have no signs or symptoms. Symptoms of hypotension may include:
- Dizziness
- Fainting
- Cold and sweaty or clammy skin
- Tiredness
- Blurry vision
- Nausea
Risk factors for high blood pressure
There are some risk factors you cannot control, and these put you at greater risk for high blood pressure (hypertension). They include:
- Age: About 50% of people older than the age of 65 have high blood pressure
- Family history of high blood pressure
- Ethnicity: High blood pressure is more common among people who are of African, South Asian, or First Nations descent.
- Gender: The risk for women increases after menopause, putting them in even greater jeopardy than men.
What causes high blood pressure?
There are two main types of high blood pressure:
1. Primary Hypertension (also known as “essential hypertension”): Cases in which there is no easily identifiable cause for high blood pressure. The risk of developing essential hypertension increases with age. A number of lifestyle factors can increase the risk for essential hypertension, including:
- Getting too much salt in the diet
- Drinking alcohol excessively (males no more than two drinks a day; females one drink a day)
- Being overweight
- Getting insufficient exercise
- Experiencing unmanageable stress
2. Secondary Hypertension: Cases in which high blood pressure does have an identifiable cause. Common causes of secondary hypertension include:
- Kidney disease
- Hormone disorders
- Some drugs (such as birth control pills and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs)
- Sleep apnea (repeated, short stops in breathing while sleeping)
- Arteriosclerosis (hardening of the arteries)
How is blood pressure diagnosed?
Blood pressure is diagnosed by a doctor using a blood pressure machine. The process includes:
- Being seated in a chair with your back supported
- Putting your feet flat on the floor and supporting your arm at heart level
- Remaining quiet for five minutes and refraining from talking
It is very important to use the proper size cuff when taking a blood pressure reading. Failure to do so will lead to inaccuracies. A cuff that is too small for the arm circumference will give an artificially high reading. A cuff that is too large will give too low a reading. Initially, blood pressure should be measured in each arm to make sure both readings are the same. The arm with the higher readings should then be targeted for all future blood pressure checks.
If your blood pressure readings are high, your doctor may ask that you return for additional measurements on different days because blood pressure can vary widely from day to day.
Your doctor will most likely diagnose you with high blood pressure if you have several readings of 140/90 or higher. If you have readings of 130/80 or higher and are diabetic or have chronic kidney disease, you are likely to be diagnosed with high blood pressure.
What can I do if I am diagnosed with high blood pressure?
You can lower your blood pressure by changing some aspects of your lifestyle and, if necessary, taking medication prescribed by a properly trained health care professional. Changing what you eat, how much you exercise and other ways you live your life can help you prevent or control high blood pressure. Here’s what you can do, along with suggestions for getting started.
Eat healthy food
Make sure your diet emphasizes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and low-fat dairy foods. An easy tool for planning health meals is the Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) diet which can help you reduce your systolic blood pressure by 8-14 mm Hg.
Get plenty of potassium, which can help prevent and control high blood pressure an pay attention to the amount of salt that’s in the processed foods you eat, such as canned soups or frozen dinners.
Achieve and Maintain a Healthy Weight
If you’re overweight, a modest reduction in weight of 10% of your current body weight can lower your blood pressure. For every kilogram of weight loss, you can reduce your blood pressure by 1.1/0.9 mm Hg.
Increase Physical Activity
Regular physical activity can help lower your blood pressure and keep your weight under control. Aiming for 30 to 60 minutes of physical activity four to seven days a week can decrease total blood pressure by 4.9/3.7 mm Hg.
Limit Your Alcohol Intake
Even if you’re healthy, alcohol can raise your blood pressure. If you choose to drink alcohol, do so in moderation — one to two drinks per day for a weekly maximum of nine for women and 14 for men. Limiting your alcohol could decrease your systolic blood pressure by 2-4 mm Hg.
Be Smoke-Free
Smoking leads to injured blood vessel walls and speeds up the process of hardening of the arteries. If you smoke and want to quit, visit our section about Smoking.
Manage Stress
Set aside some time every day to relax. Practice healthy coping techniques, such as muscle relaxation and deep breathing. Getting plenty of sleep can help, too.
Monitor Your Blood Pressure
Have your blood pressure checked regularly. High blood pressure often has no symptoms, so have yours checked by a health care professional at least once every two years or as often as your doctor suggests. If you have been told you have high-normal blood pressure, or pre-hypertension, Canadian guidelines recommend that you have your blood pressure checked at least once a year.
Home blood pressure monitoring is a good idea because it can help avoid the possibility masking your true blood pressure values. You can find home blood pressure monitors in drugstores, pharmacies, grocery stores, and department stores. If you are taking your blood pressure at home, here are some important things to consider to get the most accurate results.
- You may experience higher numbers when you are taking your blood pressure at the doctor’s office. This could be from the anxious feeling people sometimes get when a health care professional or someone in a white coat is present. This is known as white coat syndrome.
- This detailed video provides correct guidelines for measuring your blood pressure at home (Hypertension Canada).
- View a printable form for home measuring instructions.
About Lifestyle Changes
Doctors often first try to lower a patient’s blood pressure by having the patient make lifestyle changes, but like most change, it can be hard. If you had to focus on just three, the most important ones would be:
- Physical Activity: Get 30 to 60 minutes of exercise a day for as many as four to seven days a week
- Diet: Follow the DASH diet and aim for less than 2,300 mg sodium each day
- Quit Smoking: Find a program to help you quit
If your blood pressure is under control, you may be able to make fewer visits to your doctor if you monitor your blood pressure at home. If your doctor has prescribed medication, take it as directed.
Medication Therapy
But sometimes lifestyle changes are not enough. If blood pressure levels do not diminish after several months of lifestyle changes, or when very high blood pressure poses an immediate threat to health, medication may be necessary, particularly for those with organ damage, chronic kidney disease or diabetes.
Most people who are on blood pressure medication require at least two different drugs in addition to lifestyle changes to properly treat their condition.
To learn more about the many treatment options for lowering high blood pressure on our Hypertension Medication page. More detailed information about the diagnosis and treatment of high blood pressure is available from Hypertension Canada.
High blood pressure | Heart and Stroke Foundation
Keep your blood pressure in check
High blood pressure is the number one risk factor for stroke and a major risk factor for heart disease. High blood pressure is when the blood pressure in your arteries rises and your heart has to work harder than normal to pump blood through the blood vessels. It is important that you have your blood pressure checked regularly by your healthcare provider.
What is blood pressure?
Blood pressure is a measure of the pressure or force of blood against the walls of your blood vessels (arteries). Your blood pressure reading is based on two measures. The top number (systolic) is the measure of the pressure when your heart contracts and pushes blood through the arteries. The bottom (diastolic) number is the measure of the pressure when your heart relaxes between beats.
There are three different blood pressure categories: low risk, medium risk, high risk. See your doctor or healthcare provider to get a proper blood pressure measurement and find out which category you are in.
Blood pressure categories
There are some exceptions to these categories.
If you have diabetes, the high risk category for your blood pressure is slightly lower. Your blood pressure should be less than 130 / 80. Consult a healthcare provider if your blood pressure level is higher than 130 / 80 on more than one occasion.
What is low blood pressure?
Low blood pressure (hypotension) is when the pressure in your arteries drops below the normal range. But blood pressure levels below 120 / 80 may be normal for some people. Your healthcare provider will tell you if you have low blood pressure.
How do I check my blood pressure?
Ask your doctor or other healthcare provider to check your blood pressure. If you are diagnosed with high blood pressure (or other related conditions), be sure to ask your doctor how often you should have your blood pressure checked.
Scroll down for a video on how to measure your own blood pressure.
What should I do if I have a high blood pressure reading?
If you have one high reading, you should have it checked at least two more times on separate days to determine if it is consistently high.
Keep a record of your blood pressure readings on a blood pressure tracking card. This record will help determine whether your blood pressure is within a healthy range.
What can I do to control my blood pressure?
High blood pressure can be caused by many factors. You can’t control some risk factors, such as age, ethnicity and gender. Other factors, such as diet, exercise and smoking can be addressed through lifestyle changes to reduce your risk for high blood pressure.
After 65, women are more likely than men to get high blood pressure. Throughout a woman’s life, factors like pregnancy, birth control and menopause can increase the risk of developing high blood pressure.
Here is what you can do:
- Have your blood pressure checked regularly as recommended by your healthcare provider.
- If your doctor has prescribed medication for hypertension, take it as directed. Follow these links to more information about medications for hypertension and heart disease or hypertension and stroke.
- Reduce the amount of salt you eat. High sources of sodium are found in highly processed foods. This includes fast foods, prepared meals, processed meats (such as hot dogs and lunch meats), canned and dried soups, bottled dressing, packaged sauces, condiments and salty snacks. Also try to limit your use of salt in cooking and at the table. Heart & Stroke recommends that Canadians eat less than 2,300 mg of sodium (about 1 tsp / 5 mL of salt) a day total from processed foods and salt added during food preparation and at the table. If you have high blood pressure, the recommendation is to eat less than 2000 mg of sodium per day.
- Eat foods high in potassium such as fresh fruits, vegetables, low-fat dairy foods, beans and lentils – unless you are taking a medication that interacts with potassium.
- Eat a healthy, balanced diet that is lower in salt and fat (especially saturated fat). Get tips on healthy eating and learn more about the DASH eating plan, which can help lower your high blood pressure and the Mediterranean diet.
- Be physically active for at least 150 minutes per week doing moderate- to vigorous-intensity aerobic physical activity, in bouts of 10 minutes or more. Speak to your healthcare provider before starting a physical activity program.
- Achieve and maintain a healthy body weight. If you are overweight, losing even 5% to 10% of your weight can help to reduce your blood pressure as well as decrease your chances of having a stroke or heart attack.
- Be smoke-free. If you smoke, speak to your doctor or healthcare provider about quitting. If you don’t smoke, minimize exposure to secondhand smoke.
- If you drink alcohol, limit yourself to no more than 2 drinks a day, to a weekly maximum of 10 for women and 3 drinks a day to a weekly maximum of 15 for men.
- Find healthy ways to manage your stress. Too much stress may increase your blood pressure. Research suggests that the way in which you manage your stress is very important. Avoid unhealthy coping mechanisms such as smoking, alcohol use, poor food choices, not being active, and watching too much television. Find relief instead with physical activity, socializing, laughter and healthy eating. Remember to take time out for yourself. Get tips on relaxation and mindfulness from people who are living with heart disease and stroke.
Measuring your blood pressure at home
Home monitoring can help your doctor to diagnose your blood pressure correctly. It is possible for your blood pressure to rise when you visit the doctor’s office because you may be anxious. However, your blood pressure can return to normal as you go about your daily activities. This is called “white coat effect.” Measuring your own blood pressure regularly can help you determine if your blood pressure is in fact high.
On the other hand, you may experience normal blood pressure when it is measured in the doctor’s office, but have high blood pressure in other situations. This is known as “masked hypertension.” If you have a higher risk of heart disease or stroke (e.g. if you have diabetes), it is important to find out if you have masked hypertension. If this is the case, your doctor may ask you to monitor your blood pressure at home.
It is important to make sure that your home monitor is taking accurate measurements so your healthcare provider can get a complete picture of your blood pressure.
How to measure your own blood pressure
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Follow these steps to get the most accurate reading:
- Do not smoke or drink caffeine (coffee, tea, cola and some sports drinks) for 30 minutes beforehand.
- Do not measure your blood pressure when you are upset or in pain.
- Empty your bladder or bowel, if necessary.
- Sit quietly with your feet flat on the floor and back resting against the back of a chair or a firm surface for at least 5 minutes before measuring and during measurement.
- Use the same arm each time. Remove bulky or tight clothing from your arm completely.
- Wrap the cuff snugly around your bare upper arm (2 fingers should fit between the blood pressure cuff and your arm). The edge of the cuff must be 3cm above your elbow.
- Place your arm on a table or a firm surface. The cuff must be at the level of your heart.
- Do not talk or watch TV during the test.
- Take one reading and record your blood pressure.
- Bring a record of your readings to your next appointment with your healthcare provider.
How to buy a home blood pressure monitor
Your doctor or pharmacist can help you choose a monitor and select a cuff size that is right for you.
Heart & Stroke suggests that the unit be automated instead of manual. If you have an irregular heart rhythm some devices may not be advised for you. Select a device recommended by Hypertension Canada.
Once you have purchased a home monitor, take it to your healthcare provider’s office once or twice a year to make sure it continues to give accurate readings.
90,000 What is normal, low and high blood pressure? | Eternal Questions | Question-Answer
Photo: www. globallookpress.com
Blood pressure is a parameter that shows how hard the blood flow presses on the walls of the vessels. It depends on the speed and strength of the heart, as well as on the total volume of blood that it is able to pass through itself within a minute.
The blood pressure indicator has two parameters – upper and lower pressure.The top number, systolic blood pressure, shows the pressure in the arteries as the heart contracts and pushes blood into the arteries. The lower number – diastolic blood pressure, shows the pressure in the arteries at the time of relaxation of the heart muscle.
Norm of blood pressure
The absolute norm of blood pressure in an adult is considered to be 120/80 mm Hg. However, the value of normal blood pressure can be different for everyone, since it depends on the age of the person, his individual characteristics, lifestyle, occupation.There are age reference points for the blood pressure norm:
- 16–20 years Upper 100–120 mm Hg Lower 70–80 mm Hg.
- 20 – 40 years Upper 120-130 mm Hg Lower 70–80 mm Hg.
- 40 – 60 years Top up to 140 mm Hg Lower to 90 mm Hg
- Over 60 years Top 150 mm Hg Lower 90 mm Hg
Thus, if for a sixteen-year-old boy the pressure is 100/70 mm Hg. – the lower limit of the norm, then in an elderly person after 60 years, such pressure indicates a serious illness.Conversely, after 60 years, the upper limit of the blood pressure norm is 150/90, which in adolescence would most likely indicate problems with the kidneys, endocrine or cardiovascular system.
High blood pressure
The pressure indicator in a middle-aged person is more than 140/90 mm Hg, already indicates the presence of pathology. However, one should always keep in mind the concomitant diseases of a person, for example, the same parameters will be considered the norm for patients with diabetes mellitus.
Low blood pressure
Reduced pressure is considered to be an adult’s pressure less than 100/60 mm Hg. On the other hand, people who are constantly exposed to heavy loads, for example, athletes, have a pressure of 100/60 or even 90/50 mm Hg. Art becomes normal.
See also:
What is the danger of low blood pressure – “Nizhnevartovsk District Hospital No. 2”
Low blood pressure or hypotension does not threaten life and health to the same extent as its antagonist, hypertension.Apparently, it is because of this that much less is said and written about hypotension and hypotension. However, a pressure lower than the physiological norm is capable of delivering enough unpleasant moments to a person.
Pressure standards
First of all, let’s remember what is blood pressure? This is the total pressure in the arteries, which is directly related to the performance of the most important organs and systems: heartbeat, respiration and pulse rate, body temperature, etc. The highest pressure is observed at the moment of ejection of blood from the left ventricle of the heart into the aorta – the largest artery, and it is in it that the pressure is always the highest.In general, the closer the artery is to the heart and the wider its diameter, the higher it is. Distinguish between upper (systolic) and lower (diastolic) pressure.
Systolic pressure is the pressure that occurs when blood flows through the arteries from the heart to other organs and parts of the body when the heart muscle contracts.
Diastolic pressure is the pressure in the arteries between beats when the heart muscle is relaxed.
The highest blood pressure occurs when blood is ejected into the aorta; minimum – at the moment when the blood reaches the vena cava.The pressure measured in the brachial artery is taken as the norm (it is just more convenient to measure it there with a tonometer). The generally accepted norm is a pressure of 120/80 mm Hg.
The pressure can be slightly decreased and increased, which depends on the individual characteristics of a person, his age, weight, sex and other parameters. Indicators from 96/60 to 139/89 mm Hg are considered the norm. Art. Anything above is considered elevated, and anything below is considered low blood pressure, although the doctors themselves admit that it is very difficult to establish strict limits of the norm and not the norm here.
Reasons
The overwhelming majority of people with hypotension tolerate it asymptomatically. As a rule, these are children and adolescents, young people, athletes. Asymptomatic hypotension is considered a physiological norm and does not require any correction. But women need to be careful: often in their youth they may have low blood pressure and this is due to the relaxing effect of female hormones (estrogens) on the vascular wall, but in menopause, with a decrease in the level of hormones, the situation changes – hypotension rapidly develops into hypertension.Sometimes the pressure can drop in a perfectly healthy person with the usual rate of 120/80, simply due to, for example, a hot climate or due to the action of any drugs.
Those who have low blood pressure accompanied by ailments, namely:
- increased fatigue
- decreased performance and general tone
- Drowsiness
- dizziness and headache
- cold sweat attacks
- syncope
- sometimes – trembling limbs
- Meteorological
It is imperative to check for any diseases, because, as a rule, such symptoms indicate that hypotension is precisely their symptom.The most common cause of unpleasant symptoms is a functional disorder of the cardiovascular system – hypotonic neurocirculatory dystonia, as a result of which the central regulation of vascular tone is disturbed. Also, the cause may be, for example, stomach ulcer or duodenal ulcer, pulmonary tuberculosis, diseases of the liver and gallbladder, nervous system and endocrine organs. With proper treatment of the underlying disease, as a rule, the pressure indicators are also normalized. Those who tolerate low blood pressure well should not take it lightly either. low blood pressure reduces blood flow to vital organs, such as the heart and brain, which causes lightheadedness and loss of consciousness, even in someone who tolerates hypotension well.
More about symptoms
Symptoms of hypotension may differ slightly depending on its type, and each type, in turn, is associated with the cause that caused the decrease in pressure.
- Orthostatic hypotension occurs if a person stands up suddenly after lying or sitting for a long time. Normally, in a person, with such movements, the blood really rushes to the limbs, but the heart compensates for this with a rapid heartbeat. This compensation just does not occur in a hypotonic person, and therefore his eyes darken, his head is spinning, etc. The reasons for such hypotension can be dehydration, weakness with prolonged bed rest, pregnancy, diabetes, high air temperature, vascular disease (varicose veins), old age.Some serious neurological diseases also give such symptoms.
- Postprandial hypotension is rare. In this case, also, due to the lack of compensation from the heart after eating, a person may become ill because blood rushes to the digestive organs, and the brain and heart “starve”.
- Vegetovascular hypotension is characteristic of those who suffer from this vascular dysfunction. If such a person stood for a long time, especially in the sun or in the stuffy atmosphere, the blood rushes to the legs, and the heart vessels are not able to normalize the pressure.
Is hypotension treated?
As we have already said, if any diseases are the cause of hypotension, it is necessary, first of all, to treat them. If the reason is vascular dysfunction, then the most effective remedy is vascular wall training. It all depends entirely on the person himself. If he regularly and constantly pays attention to simple rules, then there is every chance to equalize the pressure to normal levels and not suffer from annoying symptoms. What is needed for this?
- Every morning 20 minutes of gymnastics or half an hour of easy walking.
- Contrast shower (hot – cold) and massage in circular movements with a natural brush all over the body from bottom to top. After the shower, rubbing with a towel until the skin is red.
- Massage courses are useful. It can be general, lymphatic drainage massage, as well as water massage or apparatus massage (LPJ, pressotherapy, etc.). which are performed in beauty salons.
- It is necessary to play sports in the fresh air as much as possible, especially in winter, and when you come home, be sure to take a contrast shower.
- Nutrition should be saturated with vitamins A, C, E and P, it is they that have a good effect on the function and condition of blood vessels and the peripheral nervous system.
- Decoctions of such adaptogens as ginseng, golden root or elecampane are good at normalizing vascular tone.
- Be careful with caffeine. She – two cups of coffee or tea a day can raise low blood pressure, but with an excess of caffeine, it can have the opposite effect, that is, provoke drowsiness.
- Be sure to sleep at least 8 hours a day, it is very important to avoid overwork.
- Rest in the middle lane (and not in a hot climate) with swimming in cool waters will also greatly improve the well-being of a person with hypotension.
- foods rich in potassium salts – apricots, beans, bran, seaweed, prunes, raisins, tomatoes,
beets, grapes, apricots, peaches, currants, dill, parsley - vegetables, fruits, berries, cranberries, peas, sprouted grains
wheat and oats, nuts, sunflower seeds - low-fat meats and poultry
- milk and dairy products with low
fat, cottage cheese - fish and seafood.
- table salt to 5g (a teaspoon without top) per day and products containing
a large amount of it – sausages, smoked meats, cheese - fatty meats, butter, sugar, flour
and confectionery, sweet drinks, sweets - liquids up to 1.5 liters per day, exclude strong tea, coffee, carbonated
and alcoholic drinks. - physiological (i.e. normal – in athletes, people whose body has adapted to great physical exertion),
- primary – due to mental or physical overload,
- secondary – as a consequence of other pathologies and diseases.
- anemia (more often with blood loss),
- craniocerebral trauma,
- intoxication (alcoholic, narcotic, infections, overdose of certain drugs),
- endocrine disorders (hypoglycemia, thyroid pathology),
- pathology of the spine (osteochondrosis, trauma, damage to the vertebral arteries).
- dizziness, loss of consciousness, weakness, loss of memory, attention, performance,
- headache (in the temples, in the forehead),
- tachycardia (rapid heart rate),
- pain in the region of the heart (lasts more than 30 minutes),
- nausea, vomiting, flatulence, constipation.
90,019 90,000 Why is it important and how to keep it under control? / State Budgetary Institution of Health of the Yamalo-Nenets Autonomous Okrug “Labytnangskaya City Hospital”
When it comes to measuring blood pressure, often all attention is paid to the higher figure. This is the “upper” or systolic pressure. It seems that this is what matters for health.Is it so?
In 2019, more than a million adults were studied and it was found that high levels of “lower” pressure also contribute to the prognosis of cardiovascular catastrophe. It turned out that the second figure is higher than 80 mm Hg. increases the risk of heart attack and stroke in the next eight years in much the same way as high levels of “upper” pressure.
Let us recall what each indicator is responsible for. Systolic pressure is the force with which oxygenated blood is pushed out of the heart and out of the body.Diastolic is the pressure of blood against the walls of blood vessels at the moment when the heart fills and rests between beats.
Pressure standards were revised in 2017 and today numbers above 119/79 are already considered the beginning of hypertension. It turns out that the ideal pressure is between 90/60 and 120/80.
While systolic blood pressure rises with age, diastolic blood pressure usually rises in people under 50 and then reverses. The “top” pressure rises during emotional experiences, sports, or after coffee and a cigarette.The heart begins to beat more often and throw out blood – this is how the first digit on the tonometer grows at the time of systole.
As long as the vessels remain healthy and elastic, the pressure between the beats of the heart is kept within the normal range. Once the capillaries become stiff and narrow, there is little room for blood. It strongly presses on the walls of blood vessels, even when it flows calmly at the moment of relaxation of the heart – this is how the diastolic indicator grows.
A one-time increase in pressure in response to stress or exercise is not considered a disease.But if the values stay above the norm for several weeks, it’s time to sound the alarm. Hypertension can develop both separately, only systolic or only diastolic, as well as simultaneously for two indicators.
The condition is especially dangerous when the difference between the upper and lower pressure becomes minimal. This is called pulse pressure, and normally it is about 35-50 mm Hg. For example, at 120/80, the pulse rate will be 40 (120 minus 80). In some situations, the pressure during the contraction of the heart approaches the values at the moment of relaxation. For example, when fluid accumulates in the chest and the heart is compressed, it does not have enough “acceleration” to work the pump at full strength. Blood does not go to distant areas and there is a risk of brain damage due to oxygen deprivation.
Accumulation of fluid in the pericardium is an extraordinary event. However, isolated diastolic hypertension can also bring the “lower” pressure closer to the “upper” one. Sometimes it occurs due to damage to the kidneys or thyroid gland, but in most cases the cause cannot be determined.It is probably known that high diastolic pressure with normal systolic pressure is more common in young people up to 40-45, especially with excess weight.
Fortunately, an increase in low blood pressure alone is not as strongly associated with cardiovascular risk as in the case of generalized or isolated systolic hypertension. The bad news is that following the high numbers for the bottom, the top pressure will almost certainly rise over the course of 10 years.
Isolated hypertension is not always amenable to pills.Medicines drop both indicators, upper and lower, and too low pressure, less than 90/60, threatens the same oxygen robbery. The good news is that while there are no other problems besides high numbers on the tonometer, non-drug therapy can save. It includes a DASH diet and 150 minutes per week of moderate cardio.
Any hypertension can proceed without symptoms and turn out to be an accidental finding during the next check. Only a doctor will tell you that there are no changes in the heart, kidneys and retina, which means that high blood pressure can be treated without pills.For this, urine and blood tests are taken, an ultrasound of the heart, an ECG and an examination of the fundus are done. Even if the doctor decides that medication is indispensable, remember that it is better to live actively “on pills” than to be proud of their absence in a bed in cardiac intensive care.
# national project demography89
Blood pressure and factors affecting it
Blood pressure in a healthy person should be within normal limits, but many people suffer from hypertension (high blood pressure) or hypotension (low blood pressure). Blood pressure (BP) is the pressure of blood in a person’s large arteries. Distinguish between blood pressure: maximum (systolic, or upper), minimum (diastolic, or lower), pulse pressure. Blood pressure is measured in millimeters of mercury (mm Hg)
The ideal pressure is considered to be 120/80 mm Hg. Art. The difference between the upper and lower pressure should normally be about 30–40 mm Hg. Art.
In most healthy people, blood pressure is within these numbers.But deviations from the ideal value are also allowed.
The upper pressure should be at least 100 and not more than 139 mm Hg. Art. [1, p. 17]
Blood pressure was first measured by Stephen Holes (England) in the 18th century. The mercury manometer was invented by J. Poiseuille (France) in 1828. This method requires puncturing an artery and is sometimes used today in animal experiments. At the end of the 19th century, the Italian scientist Riva-Rocci proposed to measure pressure using a cuff that squeezes a limb.The pressure was judged by the disappearance or appearance of the pulse in the arteries. The existing method is based on the invention of N. S. Korotkov, which was made in 1905. It allows you to determine the upper and lower pressure limits.
Among the many health problems, a person is faced with problems associated with blood pressure. An increase in blood pressure leads to diseases such as cerebral hemorrhage or heart disease. Deviation of blood pressure from the norm leads to numerous diseases and complications.The higher the level of blood pressure, the higher the risk of developing such dangerous diseases as coronary heart disease, stroke, heart attack, renal failure. [3, p. 9]
The author of the article carried out studies related to blood pressure using the digital biology laboratory PROLOG , which allows the necessary measurements to be carried out with great accuracy using special sensors and a computer.
Study 1 “Measurement of blood pressure in 8th grade students and determination of its compliance with the norm.”The study involved 11 people aged 13-15 years. To determine the norm of blood pressure in adolescents, there is a certain formula: upper pressure: 1.7 * age + 83, lower pressure: 1.6 * age + 42. At the age of 13, a pressure of 105/63 is considered normal. At the age of 14-15, normal blood pressure is 110/65. The person being examined should be in a lying or sitting position. It is necessary to pump and release air into the cuff quickly enough. During the manipulation, a calm, supportive atmosphere should be created:
Table 1
Results of blood pressure measurements in 8th grade students
Test No. | Age | AD | Blood pressure norm for a given age | Deviations from the norm |
1 | 14 | 107/73 | 110/65 | |
2 | 13 | 115/91 | 105/63 | + |
3 | 14 | 117/90 | 110/65 | + |
4 | 15 | 108/64 | 110/65 | |
5 | 14 | 122/95 | 110/65 | + |
6 | 15 | 139/78 | 110/65 | + |
7 | 14 | 104/77 | 110/65 | |
8 | 14 | 118/96 | 110/65 | + |
9 | 14 | 101/71 | 110/65 | |
10 | 14 | 119/84 | 110/65 | + |
11 | 14 | 123/95 | 110/65 | + |
The study showed that 7 out of 11 students (64%) had blood pressure values higher than the norm. It was found that they often experience headaches, weakness. These symptoms interfere with their studies. We recommended that these students measure their blood pressure daily and see a doctor if necessary.
Study No. 2 “Dependence of blood pressure on age.” The study involved 5 people aged 13–15 years, 5 people aged 20–40 years old, 5 people aged 40–60 years old.
Table 2
Results of blood pressure measurements in people of different ages
Test No. | Age | AD |
1 | 14 | 107/73 |
2 | 13 | 115/91 |
3 | 14 | 117/90 |
4 | 15 | 108/64 |
5 | 14 | 122/95 |
6 | 25 | 125/75 |
7 | 27 | 130/80 |
8 | 30 | 127/78 |
9 | 39 | 110/70 |
10 | 40 | 135/80 |
11 | 50 | 145/85 |
12 | 54 | 130/73 |
13 | 55 | 135/85 |
14 | 57 | 142/87 |
15 | 60 | 143/88 |
There are certain guidelines for the dependence of blood pressure on age:
Age | 16–20 years old | 20-40 years | 40-60 years | Over 60 years old |
Upper pressure | 100-120 | 120-130 | Up to 140 | 150 |
Lower pressure | 70-80 | 70-80 | Up to 90 | 90 |
As a result of the study, it can be concluded that blood pressure in humans increases with age. For example, if a teenager’s blood pressure is 135/85, then this will be a deviation from the norm, but for the elderly, this pressure is normal.
Study No. 3 “The effect of physical activity on blood pressure.” In the study, 11 people aged 13–14 years took part. First, we measured the blood pressure of each participant in the experiment in a calm state (results of study No. 1), and then – after physical activity (25 squats) and compared the results.
Table 3
Blood pressure indicators at rest and after exercise
Test No. | Age | HELL at rest | HELL after exercise |
1 | 14 | 107/73 (92) | 120/90 (98) |
2 | 13 | 115/91 (84) | 112/97 (89) |
3 | 14 | 117/90 (98) | 134/98 (99) |
4 | 14 | 108/64 (90) | 125/97 (101) |
5 | 14 | 122/95 (96) | 130/88 (93) |
6 | 15 | 139/78 (98) | 145/75 (98) |
7 | 14 | 104/77 (73) | 129/71 (96) |
8 | 15 | 118/96 (87) | 120/82 (89) |
9 | 14 | 101/71 (79) | 117/79 (93) |
10 | 14 | 119/84 (93) | 119/89 (90) |
11 | 14 | 123/95 (97) | 135/80 (99) |
All participants in the experiment had their blood pressure, as well as the heart rate (indicated in parentheses), slightly increased after exercise. This is because the heart rate increases during exercise, as the need for oxygen increases throughout the body. Along with the acceleration of the heart, blood pressure increases proportionally.
The blood pressure indicators are influenced by many factors, for example, age, physical activity, atmospheric pressure, alcohol, nicotine, stress, excess weight, etc. According to the results of the research, it can be concluded that some students have higher blood pressure than normal.This negatively affects their health and academic performance. It should be remembered that in some cases we can protect ourselves from the problems associated with the violation of blood pressure, and, consequently, from concomitant diseases. For example, a person decides for himself whether he should drink alcohol, smoke, or not smoke. You should think about your health at an early age, so as not to suffer later.
Literature:
1.Barsukov A.V. Arterial hypotension. Topical issues of diagnosis, prevention and treatment. SPb .: ELBI, 2012.
2. Kopylova O.S. 120/80. How to beat hypertension. M .: Eksmo, 2013.
3. Malysheva IS Hypertension, ischemia, heart attack. Effective treatment and prevention. M .: Vector, 2013.
What is Blood pressure is the force with which the flow What pressure is considered high? Optimal pressure 140/90 mm Hg. Art. and more. What is arterial Arterial hypertension is a disease of the cardiovascular What happens in the body if left untreated Explicitly or latently flowing hypertension, if it is not treated, steadily What contributes to the increase in pressure? Increase Doctor’s advice to a patient with arterial hypertension You can significantly help yourself, regardless of the cause of hypertension, if you know a few Rule No. 1. pay attention to Need to increase consumption: It is necessary to limit the consumption of: Rule No. 2. Pay attention to your weight. If you are overweight, you need to lose weight. Along with weight loss, blood pressure will also decrease. Basic principles There is an indicator that determines the risk of developing cardiovascular diseases.This is the ratio of the waist circumference Rule Correct Rule No. 4. Learn to Avoid many conflict situations practically More positive emotions! Take a look around, admire the nature around you, listen Rule You must have a rest. Recommended Rule Under the influence of nicotine, It is advisable to give up and use Rule No. 7. Monitor blood pressure regularly at . Required Self-check diary
norms, reasons and signs of increase – ISIDA Clinic Kiev, UkraineHerman Elena Borisovna Therapist 21 November 2016 Changes associated with pregnancy affect the whole body.The cardiovascular system is no exception. What happens to blood pressure and how can I control it? During pregnancy, new requirements are imposed on the cardiovascular system associated with changes in the body of the expectant mother: the body weight of the woman, uterus and placenta increases, the fetus grows, and additional uteroplacental circulation is activated. The vessels during pregnancy are influenced by many factors: changes in the hormonal background and tone of the central nervous system, an increase in the volume of circulating blood, an increase in the height of the diaphragm, an increase in pressure inside the abdominal cavity.In addition, the position of the heart in the chest changes and the frequency of its contractions increases. All efforts of the body are aimed at improving blood circulation in the uterus and placenta in order to provide the developing fetus with nutrients and oxygen. It is not surprising that in the context of a global restructuring of the body, blood pressure readings change. First trimesterAlthough this period passes without significant changes in the work of the cardiovascular system, the hormones progesterone and estrogen promote vasodilation from the first weeks of pregnancy.As a result, the pressure tends to decrease. Special attention! The period from the 4th to the 12th week can become critical if the expectant mother is actively showing early toxicosis. A drop in blood pressure, along with a deterioration in overall well-being, can cause discomfort. Second trimesterThis period is accompanied by a maximum decrease in blood pressure associated with a decrease in peripheral vascular resistance, the formation of the uteroplacental circle of blood circulation.Low blood pressure values at this time are quite natural and normally do not cause any inconvenience. Third trimesterBy 30 weeks, the volume of circulating blood reaches its maximum, and blood pressure gradually rises, most often without crossing the normal range. In the future, the increase in the volume of circulating blood is suspended, the bottom of the uterus is slightly lowered, the height of the diaphragm is reduced, and the expectant mother becomes easier. Blood pressure levels off and returns to the levels that were before pregnancy. Special attention! From the 28th to the 32nd week, a woman’s cardiovascular system has a maximum load, therefore, during this period, the well-being of pregnant women with diseases of the cardiovascular system may deteriorate. ChildbirthThe cardiovascular system mobilizes all its reserves to ensure labor, improve blood circulation in the mother-placenta-fetus system and allow mother and baby to successfully overcome this period. Special attention! In response to physical stress and pain, heart rate and blood pressure increase. In addition, it increases reflexively due to compression of the aorta and the inferior vena cava behind the uterus. If the expectant mother is hypotonic , even lower blood pressure values can be predicted in the I-II trimesters. Weakness and drowsiness are characteristic of all pregnant women, but in hypotonic patients the symptoms are more pronounced. What to do? Adhere to the drinking regimen prescribed by the doctor, sleep – at least 8 hours a day.Moreover, it is better to fall asleep no later than 22.00, since from this time hormones are produced that protect the body from stress and normalize metabolism. You should also eat fractionally, walk in the fresh air, do exercises. Tea – black or green will help to cheer up. If a woman tolerates low blood pressure well, there is no need to use drugs. But in any case, the condition of the pregnant woman should be monitored by a doctor. If the expectant mother is hypertensive , this disease can seriously affect pregnancy and fetal development.Hypertension can cause a delay in the intrauterine development of a baby, complications in childbirth or the birth of a low birth weight baby, since the fetus does not receive enough oxygen and nutrients. What to do? Stress should be avoided, table salt should be abandoned – it retains fluid and increases vascular tone. And also exclude spicy dishes, strong tea and coffee from the diet. In general, hypertension requires daily medication, and many of them are contraindicated during the period of bearing a child, therefore, not only with the onset of pregnancy, but also at the planning stage, it is important to discuss with the doctor the possibility of replacing drugs with those that will not harm the unborn baby. Expert Elena GERMAN, physician at ISIDA clinic It happens that during pregnancy a condition that is dangerous for the mother and baby develops – preeclampsia, or late gestosis. Its symptoms are high blood pressure, increasing edema, protein in the urine. Preeclampsia can be a separate disease or develop against a background of preexisting hypertension. Therefore, for any symptoms associated with increased pressure – headache, dizziness, flies before the eyes, darkening in the eyes, tinnitus – you should consult a doctor. 90,000 What to do at low pressure? The upper limit of normal blood pressure (BP) is 140/90 mm Hg, the lower one is 90/60 mm Hg. Excess is hypertension, and a BP reading below the normal range is hypotension (hypotension). It should be borne in mind that the level of normal (working) blood pressure is different for each person.Therefore, it is better to take into account that any pressure less than normal (individual) by 20% is hypotension. Causes and signs of low heart pressure.Hypotension can occur acutely or persist chronically. Hypotension is diagnosed with a chronic decrease in blood pressure. Causes of acute hypotension: myocardial infarction, profuse bleeding, traumatic or anaphylactic shock, pulmonary embolism, peritonitis, arrhythmia attack. Chronic hypotension can be: Secondary hypotension is most common. She is called by: Low pressure symptoms:To establish the cause of these symptoms and make a diagnosis, an additional examination (ECG, ultrasound of the heart and blood vessels, EGD) and consultation and supervision of doctors (therapist, endocrinologist, neurologist, gastroenterologist) are necessary. Should low blood pressure be treated?Many people do not feel their BP rise or fall. This is how our body works – it adapts to moderate changes in blood pressure thanks to complex internal mechanisms. However, this does not mean that such conditions are not dangerous. Everyone knows that arterial hypertension is often accompanied by strokes and heart attacks. However, not many people know that hypotension has the same complications! And low blood pressure in youth can lead to hypertension in adulthood and old age.Therefore, hypotension is an absolutely real problem. For older people, hypotension is completely dangerous: the brain suffers from a lack of oxygen and nutrients (together with atherosclerosis, ischemic stroke can develop), and heart disease (atherocardiosclerosis and angina pectoris) with hypotension progresses more rapidly. For pregnant women, low blood pressure is an extremely dangerous condition. |