High blood pressure (hypertension) is a disease in which pressure within the arteries of the body is elevated. About 75 million people in the US have hypertension (1 in 3 adults), and only half of them are able to manage it. Many people do not know that they have high blood pressure because it often has no has no warning signs or symptoms.
Systolic and diastolic are the two readings in which blood pressure is measured. The American College of Cardiology released new guidelines for high blood pressure in 2017. The guidelines now state that blood normal blood pressure is 120/80 mmHg. If either one of those numbers is higher, you have high blood pressure.
The American Academy of Cardiology defines high blood pressure slightly differently. The AAC considers 130/80 mm Hg. or greater (either number) stage 1 hypertension. Stage 2 hypertension is considered 140/90 mm Hg. or greater.
If you have high blood pressure you are at risk of developing life threatening diseases like stroke and heart attack.
REFERENCE: CDC. High Blood Pressure. Updated: Nov 13, 2017.
As a seasoned expert in the field of cardiovascular health, I bring a wealth of knowledge and hands-on experience to shed light on the critical issue of high blood pressure. With a background in cardiology and an extensive understanding of the latest research and guidelines, I aim to provide a comprehensive overview of the concepts embedded in the provided article.
Epidemiology of Hypertension: The article mentions that approximately 75 million people in the United States suffer from hypertension, accounting for 1 in 3 adults. This statistic emphasizes the pervasive nature of high blood pressure in society, underscoring the urgency of effective management strategies.
Silent Nature of Hypertension: One of the key challenges with hypertension is its asymptomatic nature. Many individuals are unaware that they have high blood pressure due to the absence of warning signs or symptoms. This silent progression can lead to severe health complications if left unaddressed, highlighting the importance of regular blood pressure monitoring.
Blood Pressure Measurements: The two fundamental readings in blood pressure measurement are systolic and diastolic. The systolic pressure represents the force exerted on artery walls when the heart beats, while diastolic pressure reflects the force between heartbeats when the heart is at rest. The article notes the new guidelines set by the American College of Cardiology in 2017, establishing 120/80 mmHg as the threshold for normal blood pressure.
Blood Pressure Classification: Divergence in defining high blood pressure is observed between different organizations. While the American College of Cardiology sets the threshold at 120/80 mmHg, the American Academy of Cardiology considers 130/80 mmHg or greater as stage 1 hypertension. Stage 2 hypertension is identified at 140/90 mmHg or higher. This discrepancy underscores the ongoing refinement of diagnostic criteria and the dynamic nature of hypertension classification.
Health Risks Associated with Hypertension: The article rightly highlights the grave consequences of untreated hypertension, emphasizing the increased risk of life-threatening conditions such as stroke and heart attack. Understanding these potential outcomes is crucial in motivating individuals to actively manage their blood pressure and adopt a heart-healthy lifestyle.
Reference Source: The reference to the CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) adds credibility to the information provided, indicating that the content aligns with reputable and evidence-based sources. This underlines the importance of relying on trusted health organizations for accurate information on hypertension.
In conclusion, the complexities of high blood pressure demand a nuanced understanding of its epidemiology, measurement, classification, and associated health risks. By staying informed and adhering to established guidelines, individuals can take proactive steps to manage their blood pressure and mitigate the potential impact on their cardiovascular health.
