Blood Pressure Categories (ACC/AHA 2017)
Normal: <120/<80 mmHg
Elevated: 120-129/<80 mmHg
Stage 1 Hypertension: 130-139/80-89 mmHg
Stage 2 Hypertension: ≥140/≥90 mmHg
Hypertensive Crisis: ≥180/≥120 mmHg (emergency)
Health Implications
High blood pressure (hypertension) is the leading risk factor for heart disease, stroke, kidney disease, and dementia. Often called 'silent killer' because it usually has no symptoms. One-third of adults have hypertension; many are undiagnosed. Even small reductions (5-10 mmHg) significantly reduce cardiovascular events.
Management Strategies
Lifestyle: Reduce sodium (<2300mg/day), DASH diet, lose weight if overweight, exercise 150min/week, limit alcohol, quit smoking, manage stress
Medications: ACE inhibitors, ARBs, calcium channel blockers, diuretics, beta blockers
Monitoring: Home BP monitoring recommended. Take multiple readings at different times.
Quick Tips
- BMI alone doesn't reflect overall health
- TDEE varies based on activity level
- Consult a healthcare professional for medical decisions
Frequently Asked Questions
No, diagnosis requires multiple elevated readings on different occasions (unless crisis level).
Systolic becomes more important with age and is a stronger predictor of cardiovascular events.
No, usually medication controls but doesn't cure hypertension. Consult doctor before stopping.
Yes, BP can be higher in medical settings. Home monitoring helps identify this.
Adults: at least every 2 years if normal, more often if elevated. Daily if hypertensive.