The first number, called systolic blood pressure, measures the pressure in your arteries when your heart beats. The second number, called diastolic blood pressure, measures the pressure in your arteries when your heart rests between beats.
Blood pressure readings are given in two numbers. The top number is the maximum pressure the heart exerts while beating (systolic pressure). The bottom number is the amount of pressure in the arteries between beats (diastolic pressure).
Normal Blood Pressure By Age
| Age | SBP | |
|---|---|---|
| Male | 51-55 | 125.5 |
| 56-60 | 129.5 | |
| 61-65 | 143.5 | |
| Female | 21-25 | 115.5 |
High systolic blood pressure can have many causes. As we age, our arteries stiffen, and over time this contributes to high blood pressure. The genes we inherit also can cause high blood pressure. Certain underlying conditions like thyroid disease, cortisol excess, and obesity can also cause high blood pressure.
Moderate or severe headaches, anxiety, shortness of breath, nosebleeds, palpitations, or feeling of pulsations in the neck are some signs of high blood pressure. Often, these are late signs that high blood pressure has existed for some time, therefore annual checks are recommended for all adults.
Anxiety doesn't cause long-term high blood pressure (hypertension). But episodes of anxiety can cause dramatic, temporary spikes in blood pressure.
Treatment of ISH with diuretics, calcium channel blockers (CCBs), and angiotensin II inhibitors is effective in reducing systolic blood pressure, preventing cardiovascular morbid events, and lowering mortality; these agents may have to be used in combination to achieve the systolic blood pressure goal of < 140 mm Hg.
The important thing to remember is that aspirin does not lower blood pressure on its own. However, its ability to thin out the blood can benefit some people with high blood pressure.
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Treating and preventing high blood pressure starts with making lifestyle adjustments, such as getting regular exercise and eating a nutrient-rich diet. Drinking water and staying properly hydrated can also help maintain healthy blood pressure.
Bananas. You've heard that an apple a day keeps the doctor away. But you might not know that a banana a day keeps high blood pressure at bay. This fruit is packed full of potassium -- an important blood pressure-lowering mineral.
Heat warms your body and helps blood flow throughout your body. Better circulation may lower blood pressure and reduce risk of heart disease. Having a cup or two of hot water is an easy way to get your blood flowing.