
The major difference between the old and new guidelines is the elimination of the category of “pre-hypertension.” However, findings from research studies show that complications can exist when blood pressure is as low as 130-139 over 80-89.

pre-hypertensive: systolic between 120-139 or diastolic between 80-89.Since 2003, the guidelines for diagnosing and treating high blood pressure were: Prolonged, untreated high blood pressure can also lead to heart attack, stroke, blindness, and kidney disease. If left untreated, a blood pressure of 180/120 or higher results in an 80% chance of death within one year, with an average survival rate of ten months.

High blood pressure, or hypertension, is known as the “silent killer.” This means it does not have any symptoms and can go untreated for a long time, which can lead to many major health risks. That number is lower.ĭoctors use standard guidelines to determine if your blood pressure falls into a range known as “normal.” If it is too high and is consistently higher than the guidelines, it known as “hypertension.” What are the dangers of high blood pressure? The bottom number is the “diastolic” pressure, which shows the force of the blood when the heart is “resting” in between contractions. The top number, known as the “systolic pressure,” measures the force of the blood against the artery walls when the heart contracts to pump blood out. Your blood pressure is written as two numbers.

It shows how hard your heart is working to pump blood. The measurement then indicates a unit of pressure known as millimeters of mercury (or mm Hg). Your blood pressure is measured using a device called a sphygmomanometer – that cuff that goes around your arm.

If it is too high, it can put a strain on your heart and blood vessels, and can lead to increased risk of heart disease and stroke. Your blood pressure is an important part of your overall health.īut what is it? Blood pressure is the force of the blood pushing against the walls of your blood vessels.
