Understanding prehypertension and high blood pressure

Do you know your blood pressure score? Most of the time, when you visit your local doctor or go to the hospital, you’ll have a blood pressure reading taken. The results of this test indicate whether or not you suffer from high blood pressure.

There are several different categories of high blood pressure, ranging from “normal” blood pressure to light cases such as prehypertension and more serious versions of high blood pressure such as Stage 1 and Stage 2 hypertension.

Some people also suffer from hypotension – blood pressure that’s below the normal levels. This is relatively uncommon, however, and typically only affects athletes who exercise frequently and, as a result, have lower-than-normal blood pressure.

In this guide, we’ll look at the different blood pressure scores and explain what they mean for your health. If you’ve recent had your blood pressure levels taken and are interested in learning more, scroll down to see which category you fit into.

Normal Blood Pressure

Most people have normal blood pressure scores. A normal blood pressure reading is one with a systolic blood pressure level of less than 120 mmHg or a diastolic blood pressure level of less than 80 mmHg.

The majority of people fit into this category. If your blood pressure is below both of these readings, you have no major health issues to be concerned about that could be related to high blood pressure.

However, if your reading is on the high end of normal – for example, a systolic blood pressure level of 199 mmHg – it could be worth taking some steps to improve your diet, lifestyle and other factors.

Prehypertension

Prehypertension is blood pressure that’s elevated beyond the normal level but not yet high enough to be considered high blood pressure. If you have prehypertension, it’s important to make changes to your lifestyle to lower your blood pressure.

A prehypertension blood pressure reading is one with a systolic blood pressure level of 120-139 mmHg or a diastolic blood pressure level of 80-89mmHg. This condition is less serious than Stage 1 or 2 hypertension, but is still serious.

If you have prehypertension, you should speak to your doctor about your treatment options and make changes to your diet, lifestyle and activity level to decrease your blood pressure to within a normal range.

Stage 1 high blood pressure

Stage 1 high blood pressure is blood pressure that’s elevated significantly above the normal level. Stage 1 high blood pressure involves a systolic blood pressure level of 140-159 mmHg or a diastolic blood pressure level of 90-99 mmHg.

If you have Stage 1 high blood pressure, it’s important to speak to your doctor about medications and treatment options. With diet, exercise and lifestyle changes you can lower your blood pressure and improve your health.

Stage 2 high blood pressure

Stage 2 high blood pressure is blood pressure that’s elevated far above the normal level. Stage 2 high blood pressure involves a systolic blood pressure level of 160 or higher mmHg or a diastolic blood pressure level of 100mmHg.

If you have Stage 2 high blood pressure, you should speak to your doctor as soon as possible about medication and lifestyle change options. Treatment can reduce your blood pressure, reduce your health risks and improve your overall wellbeing.