Traditional blood pressure measurements
Previously, blood pressure measurements were categorized as follows:
Normally: Less than 120/80 mmHg (millimeters of mercury)
Prehypertension: 120–139/80–89 mmHg
Hypertension 1. degree: 140-159/90-99 mmHg
Hypertension 2. degree: 160/100 mmHg or more
Hypertensive crisis: Measurements that exceed 180/110 mmHg, require immediate medical attention
New guidelines:
The American Heart Association (AHA) recently updated its blood pressure classifications:
Optimally: Not exceeding 120/80 mmHg
Elevated: Systolic between 120 and 129 and diastolic below 80 mmHg
Hypertension 1. degree: Systolic level between 130 and 139 or diastolic level between 80 and 89 mmHg
Hypertension 2. degree: Systolic at least 140 mmHg or diastolic at least 90 mmHg
Hypertensive crisis: Similar to the previous definition.
Signs and symptoms of high blood pressure
While high blood pressure often goes unnoticed, some potential signs at very high levels include:
Chest pain
Bewilderment
Headaches
Sound or tinnitus
Irregular heartbeat
Nosebleeds
Weariness
Changes in vision
Complications of high blood pressure
Uncontrolled hypertension can lead to a variety of health problems, including:
Heart attack: High blood pressure puts a strain on the heart, increasing the risk of heart attack.
Stroke: Weakened blood vessels due to hypertension can rupture or become clogged, causing a stroke.
Chronic heart failure: The heart struggles to pump blood efficiently when it is burdened by high blood pressure.
Vision problems: High blood pressure can damage the blood vessels in the eyes, leading to vision loss.
Metabolic syndrome: This set of conditions includes high blood pressure, high blood sugar, unhealthy cholesterol levels, and increased belly fat.
Memory problems: Uncontrolled hypertension can negatively affect memory and cognitive function.
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