High blood pressure, also called hypertension, is a medical condition in which the force of blood against the walls of the arteries is too high. It is generally measured as two numbers: the systolic pressure (the top number) and the diastolic pressure (the bottom number). The systolic pressure measures the force of blood when the heart pumps, while the diastolic pressure measures the force of blood when the heart is at rest.
When the systolic pressure stays above 140 mm Hg and/or the diastolic pressure stays above 90 mm Hg, it is considered high blood pressure. Both high systolic and diastolic blood pressure are bad and can increase the risk of developing serious health problems. However, in general, high systolic blood pressure is considered more dangerous than high diastolic blood pressure.
This is because systolic blood pressure measures the force of blood flow through the arteries when the heart is pumping. When the systolic blood pressure is high, it can cause damage to the arteries over time, leading to atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries) and an increased risk of heart disease, stroke, and kidney damage.
High systolic blood pressure has also been linked to an increased risk of dementia and other cognitive problems.
On the other hand, while high diastolic blood pressure can also be a risk factor for cardiovascular disease, it mainly indicates problems with the functioning of small arteries and arterioles. High diastolic blood pressure may indicate that the arteries are not relaxing properly between heartbeats, which can cause organ damage as well in the long term.
Both high systolic and diastolic blood pressure should be taken seriously. However, high systolic blood pressure is considered more dangerous because it can lead to more severe and life-threatening health problems. It is important to maintain healthy blood pressure levels through lifestyle changes such as exercise, a healthy diet, and medication when necessary.
Regular blood pressure checks are also important to identify any potential issues before they become serious.
Table of Contents
Is systolic or diastolic more risky?
Both systolic and diastolic blood pressure can be risky if they are consistently high. However, according to medical professionals, systolic blood pressure is more of a risk factor than diastolic blood pressure.
Systolic blood pressure is the top number in a blood pressure reading and represents the amount of pressure in the arteries when the heart beats. Diastolic blood pressure is the bottom number and measures the pressure in the arteries between heartbeats. In general, a healthy blood pressure reading is 120/80 mmHg or lower.
When systolic blood pressure consistently measures at 140 mmHg or higher, it is categorized as high blood pressure, also known as hypertension. High systolic blood pressure means the heart is working harder to pump blood through the arteries, putting stress on the heart muscle and increasing the risk of heart disease, stroke, and kidney failure.
In comparison, high diastolic blood pressure (measuring consistently at 90 mmHg or above) is associated with an increased risk of health problems such as heart disease, stroke, and kidney disease. However, high diastolic blood pressure is usually accompanied by high systolic blood pressure.
Therefore, while both systolic and diastolic blood pressure can be risky, high systolic blood pressure is generally considered a greater risk factor for health problems. It is important to monitor blood pressure regularly and follow a healthcare provider’s recommendations to maintain healthy blood pressure and reduce the risk of serious health conditions.
Which is most important systolic or diastolic?
Both systolic and diastolic blood pressure measurements are important in assessing a person’s overall cardiovascular health. Systolic and diastolic blood pressure readings are numbers that reflect the pressure exerted by the blood as it moves through the arteries. Systolic blood pressure is the highest number, representing the pressure when the heart is contracting and pushing blood out into the body.
Diastolic blood pressure is the lower number, representing the pressure when the heart is resting between beats.
However, if one was to choose which is more important, it would be the systolic blood pressure as it is a better predictor of cardiovascular disease and mortality in older adults. As we age, our arteries become less elastic and more rigid, making it harder for the heart to pump blood through them. This causes an increase in systolic pressure, which is why it is a better predictor of cardiovascular disease in older adults.
In addition, systolic blood pressure also plays a key role in determining a person’s overall blood pressure level. Elevated systolic blood pressure is often a sign of hypertension, which can lead to an increased risk of heart attack, stroke, and other cardiovascular diseases.
That being said, it is important to note that both systolic and diastolic blood pressure readings are necessary for an accurate assessment of a person’s overall cardiovascular health. Both numbers are used in conjunction to determine a person’s blood pressure category, which can range from normal to hypertensive crisis.
Therefore, it is important to monitor both numbers to ensure proper diagnosis, treatment, and management of any potential cardiovascular risk factors. maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including regular exercise, a balanced diet, and stress management can help to keep both systolic and diastolic blood pressure within a healthy range.
Why is systolic BP more important than diastolic?
Systolic blood pressure (SBP) is considered more important than diastolic blood pressure (DBP) as it is a better predictor of cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk. SBP represents the pressure in the arteries when the heart contracts or beats and pumps blood into the vessels. On the other hand, DBP represents the pressure in the arteries when the heart is at rest between beats.
Atherosclerosis, the hardening and narrowing of the arteries due to the buildup of plaque, is an important contributor to CVD, including heart attacks and strokes. High SBP can lead to damage to the arterial wall, causing inflammation and promoting atherosclerosis. Furthermore, high SBP forces the heart to work harder, increasing its workload and leading to left ventricular hypertrophy, a condition where the heart muscles thicken and become less efficient.
Left ventricular hypertrophy is associated with an increased risk of heart failure, heart attacks, and arrhythmias.
In contrast, high DBP is mainly associated with an increased risk of stroke. Studies have shown that a DBP above 90 mmHg is a strong predictor of stroke in hypertensive and non-hypertensive individuals. However, for those with low SBP, a high DBP may indicate poor blood flow to the organs, such as the kidneys, brain, and heart, leading to organ damage and increased risk of CVD.
SBP and DBP are interdependent, and changes in one can affect the other. However, as SBP is a better reflection of arterial stiffness and is more closely related to CVD risk, it is considered more important than DBP. Monitoring and controlling SBP is therefore crucial for the prevention and management of CVD, especially for people at high risk, such as those with hypertension, diabetes, or high cholesterol.
Why is high diastolic blood pressure harmful?
High diastolic blood pressure can be dangerous as it puts added strain and pressure on the arteries and blood vessels within the body. The diastolic blood pressure measurement is the lower number and represents the pressure in the arteries when the heart is resting between beats. When this pressure consistently rises above the normal range of 60-80 mmHg, it increases the workload on the heart as it must work harder to pump blood throughout the body.
Over time, high diastolic blood pressure can cause damage to the walls of the blood vessels, making them thicker and less flexible. This can lead to a range of health problems, including an increased risk for heart disease, stroke, and kidney damage. High blood pressure can also increase the risk of developing peripheral artery disease, which is a condition where blood flow to the legs and feet is restricted, leading to pain and discomfort.
High diastolic blood pressure, alongside high systolic blood pressure, poses a major health threat as it contributes to the development of hypertension, a condition in which blood pressure remains consistently high over time. This can result in damage to the arteries, leading to atherosclerosis, a condition where plaque builds up in the arteries, making them narrower and obstructing blood flow.
This can lead to heart attacks and strokes, which can be fatal.
Furthermore, high blood pressure can cause damage to the kidneys which can lead to kidney disease, a condition where the kidneys are unable to properly filter waste products from the blood. This can cause a buildup of waste in the body, leading to serious health issues if left untreated.
High diastolic blood pressure is harmful as it can cause damage to vital organs and lead to serious health issues such as heart disease, stroke, and kidney damage. It is important to monitor blood pressure regularly and seek medical attention if the numbers are consistently high. Lifestyle changes such as exercise, healthy eating, and managing stress can also help to manage blood pressure levels and prevent long-term health complications.
Should I worry if my diastolic is high?
Yes, you should be worried if your diastolic blood pressure is high because it indicates an underlying health concern that may lead to severe health issues such as heart disease or stroke. In the human body, blood pressure is measured in two numbers – systolic and diastolic. The systolic blood pressure represents the pressure of the blood when the heart is pumping, while diastolic blood pressure is the pressure of the blood between the heartbeats.
A diastolic reading of 80 mmHg or less is generally considered normal, while a reading of 90 mmHg or more is considered high. A diastolic reading above 90 mmHg indicates high blood pressure, also known as hypertension. Hypertension occurs when the blood vessels are narrow or stiff, causing the heart to work harder to pump blood through the body.
Over time, hypertension can damage the blood vessels, leading to serious health complications.
High diastolic blood pressure is often a sign of an underlying condition that needs attention, such as obesity, kidney disease, diabetes, or sleep apnea. It is essential to know your blood pressure and report any changes promptly to your healthcare provider. Together, you can identify the cause of the high blood pressure and work on managing it while reducing your risks of developing serious health issues.
Lifestyle changes such as eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, lowering salt and alcohol intake and maintaining a healthy weight can help reduce high blood pressure. In addition, there are medications available to manage your blood pressure and to prevent complications.
High diastolic blood pressure should be taken seriously, since it is a warning sign of potential health problems. Therefore, it is highly recommended to visit a healthcare provider regularly to check your blood pressure, identify any potential issues, and take necessary measures to maintain a healthy lifestyle.
What is stroke level blood pressure?
Stroke level blood pressure is a term used to refer to extremely high blood pressure that increases the risk of a stroke. Typically, a blood pressure reading of 120/80 mmHg is considered normal. However, when the blood pressure reading is over 180/120 mmHg, it is considered a medical emergency.
At this level, the blood vessels in the body become damaged due to the increased pressure, leading to an increased risk of stroke, heart attack, and other cardiovascular diseases. The damage to the blood vessels can cause them to burst or become blocked, which can lead to an interruption in oxygen and blood flow to the brain, leading to a stroke.
Stroke level blood pressure is a serious condition that requires immediate medical attention. If left untreated, it can cause irreversible damage to the heart and other organs in the body. The risk of stroke and other life-threatening complications increases with the duration of high blood pressure.
To prevent stroke level blood pressure, it is essential to maintain a healthy lifestyle that includes a balanced diet, regular exercise, and stress management. It is also crucial to monitor blood pressure regularly to detect any changes and take appropriate measures promptly.
Stroke level blood pressure is an extremely high blood pressure reading that poses a severe risk to health, particularly the risk of stroke. Therefore, it is crucial to maintain healthy blood pressure levels and seek immediate medical attention if blood pressure readings exceed the normal range.
When should you worry about the bottom number of blood pressure?
The bottom number of blood pressure, also known as diastolic pressure, represents the pressure in the arteries when the heart is relaxing between beats. While high diastolic pressure can indicate underlying health issues, it is important to note that blood pressure readings are a dynamic measure that can fluctuate due to various factors such as age, activity level, stress, and caffeine or alcohol consumption.
In general, a diastolic reading of 90 mm Hg or higher is considered high and could be cause for concern. Persistently high diastolic pressure could indicate an underlying health issue such as hypertension or heart disease. This is because continuous high pressure in the arteries can cause damage to the blood vessels and organs over time, increasing the risk of stroke, heart attack, and other complications.
However, it is important to note that a single high diastolic reading does not necessarily indicate a problem. Several factors such as anxiety, illness, dehydration, or heavy physical activity can lead to temporary spikes in blood pressure, including the diastolic number. Therefore, it is important to take multiple readings over a period of time before assessing whether you need to worry about your diastolic pressure.
It is also essential to monitor your overall blood pressure trends over time. If you consistently have high diastolic pressure measurements, you should seek medical attention from a healthcare provider. Your healthcare provider may recommend lifestyle changes such as regular exercise, a healthier diet, and stress management techniques to lower your blood pressure.
They may also prescribe medication to control your blood pressure if necessary.
You should worry about the bottom number of blood pressure when it consistently reads at 90 mm Hg or higher over time. However, a single high reading does not necessarily indicate a problem, and it is important to monitor your blood pressure trends over time and seek medical attention if necessary.
Maintaining a healthy lifestyle and managing stress can also help keep your blood pressure within a healthy range.
How much difference should there be between systolic and diastolic?
The difference between systolic and diastolic blood pressure, also known as the pulse pressure, can vary depending on a number of factors including age, gender, physical fitness level, and underlying health conditions.
In general, a healthy individual should have a pulse pressure of around 40 mmHg to 60 mmHg. This means that if their systolic blood pressure is around 120 mmHg, their diastolic blood pressure should be around 80 mmHg to 60 mmHg respectively. However, the normal range for pulse pressure can vary slightly depending on the source, with some studies suggesting that a range of 30 mmHg to 50 mmHg is also considered healthy.
It’s worth noting that a wide pulse pressure (greater than 60 mmHg) may be a sign of underlying health conditions such as hypertension (high blood pressure), atherosclerosis (narrowing of the arteries), or heart disease. Similarly, a narrow pulse pressure (less than 30 mmHg) may indicate a number of different health problems such as shock or heart failure.
Therefore, the difference between systolic and diastolic blood pressure is an important parameter used to assess overall cardiovascular health. Regular monitoring and maintenance of blood pressure within normal range can significantly reduce the risk of developing chronic health conditions and improve overall quality of life.
If you have any concerns regarding your blood pressure, it is important to seek advice from your healthcare professional.
What if systolic is high but not diastolic?
Blood pressure is a crucial measurement of a person’s overall health, and it is essential to monitor this regularly to prevent any serious or fatal health risks. Blood pressure is measured in terms of two numbers, systolic pressure, and diastolic pressure, and it is usually represented in the measurement unit of millimeters of mercury (mmHg).
Systolic pressure refers to the pressure exerted by the blood on the walls of the arteries when the heart contracts or beats, and diastolic pressure refers to the pressure exerted on the arterial walls when the heart relaxes between beats. The normal range for systolic pressure is considered to be anywhere between 90 and 119 mmHg, and for diastolic pressure, it ranges between 60 and 79 mmHg.
When only the systolic pressure is high, and the diastolic pressure is normal, it is called Isolated Systolic Hypertension (ISH). This phenomenon is common in older adults and is mainly attributed to the loss of elasticity in the arteries due to age-related changes. When the arteries lose their elasticity, they become less able to absorb the increased pressure caused by the heart contraction, leading to an elevation in systolic pressure.
However, high systolic blood pressure, even in the absence of elevated diastolic blood pressure, can be a sign of underlying health issues. High systolic pressure is a leading cause of cardiovascular diseases such as stroke, heart attack, and heart failure. It can also lead to the development of other health issues such as kidney failure and blindness.
Therefore, it is advisable to take measures to reduce systolic blood pressure, even if the diastolic pressure is normal. These measures may include lifestyle changes such as adapting a healthier diet, regular exercise, avoiding smoking and alcohol, and managing stress levels. If these measures are ineffective, medications such as ACE inhibitors, calcium channel blockers or diuretics can be prescribed to lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of health issues.
It is essential to monitor blood pressure levels regularly and take necessary precautions, especially if the systolic pressure is high, even if the diastolic pressure is normal. High systolic pressure is a cause for concern and may need medical attention to reduce the risk of developing severe health issues.
What if diastolic is normal but systolic is high?
When measuring blood pressure, two numbers are generally reported – systolic and diastolic pressure. Systolic pressure refers to the pressure of blood when the heart is contracting, while diastolic pressure is the pressure when the heart is resting in between beats. Both these numbers can help doctors gauge the overall health of a person’s circulatory system.
If a person’s systolic pressure is high, but their diastolic pressure is normal, it is indicative of a condition called isolated systolic hypertension (ISH). This condition is relatively common in older adults, and refers to a situation where the systolic pressure is over 140, but diastolic pressure stays below 90.
In ISH, the walls of arteries become stiffer and less elastic, which means they are more difficult to expand and contract with the pressure changes of the heartbeat. This leads to an increase in systolic pressure while diastolic pressure remains stable. It’s important to note that this condition can be present even in people who are otherwise healthy and may not display any obvious symptoms.
ISH can put a person at risk for a range of health problems, from cardiovascular disease and kidney damage to stroke and dementia. Therefore, people with ISH need to be proactive about preventing these issues through a combination of lifestyle changes and, in some cases, medication.
Lifestyle changes that can help to manage ISH include regular exercise, weight loss, and a diet low in sodium and saturated fats. Quitting smoking and moderating alcohol consumption are also important in maintaining proper blood pressure levels.
In more severe cases of ISH, medication may be necessary to control blood pressure. Common medications include diuretics, ACE inhibitors, and calcium channel blockers. Your doctor will be able to explain the risks and benefits of each option and help you make the right choice for your individual needs.
If a person’s diastolic pressure is normal but systolic pressure is high, it is indicative of a condition called isolated systolic hypertension. While ISH is relatively common, it can increase the risk of a range of health problems such as cardiovascular disease, kidney damage, stroke, and dementia.
Therefore, timely management of this condition is important through various lifestyle changes, and in some cases, medication. It is always advisable to seek medical attention and follow your doctor’s recommendations for maintaining your overall health and keeping blood pressure in a healthy range.
What time of the day is blood pressure highest?
Blood pressure is a measurement of the force at which blood flows through the arteries in the body. It is a critical indicator of one’s overall health and can fluctuate depending on various factors. Time of the day is a significant factor in determining blood pressure levels.
The blood pressure of an average person is not constant throughout the day as it tends to fluctuate based on several factors, mainly the body’s circadian rhythm. The human body works on a 24-hour cycle, widely known as Circadian rhythm, which controls every bodily function, including blood pressure.
Studies have shown that blood pressure is highest in the early morning hours and can be lowest during nighttime.
Most people experience a spike in blood pressure levels early in the morning hours, shortly after waking up. This phenomenon is known as the “morning surge,” and it is a natural response in the body caused by the hormones released to prepare the body for the day. During this period, the brain and body begin to awaken and go through various processes to prepare the body for the day.
As a result, the blood pressure levels will naturally be elevated.
After the initial surge in blood pressure levels in the morning, the levels generally tend to stabilize throughout the day. However, blood pressure levels can fluctuate depending on one’s activities. For example, physical exertion and stress can cause a temporary elevation in blood pressure levels.
As the day progresses, blood pressure levels tend to decrease, with the lowest readings typically obtained at night when the body is in a state of rest. During sleep, the body begins to relax, and blood pressure levels decrease as a result. However, for people with hypertension, their blood pressure may not follow this typical pattern and may be higher throughout the day.
The time of the day does play a vital role in determining one’s blood pressure levels. The average person’s blood pressure will tend to be highest in the early morning hours and lowest at night. However, other factors such as physical activity, stress, and medication can affect blood pressure levels.
It is, therefore, essential for individuals to regularly monitor their blood pressure levels, take the necessary steps to maintain a healthy lifestyle and seek medical attention if persistent elevation in blood pressure levels is observed.
What is normal blood pressure for a 70 year old?
The normal blood pressure for a 70 year old largely depends on their overall health and any medical conditions they may have. However, according to the American Heart Association, a healthy blood pressure reading for a 70 year old is less than 120mmHg systolic (top number) and less than 80mmHg diastolic (bottom number).
This is considered as the optimal blood pressure range for optimal cardiovascular health.
It is important to note that blood pressure tends to increase with age, as the arteries become less elastic and stiffer. This means that older individuals are at a higher risk of developing hypertension or high blood pressure. Hypertension is a condition where the force of blood against the walls of the arteries is consistently too high, which can lead to serious health complications such as heart disease, stroke, and kidney disease.
Therefore, it is important for older adults to have their blood pressure checked regularly and make the necessary lifestyle changes to maintain healthy blood pressure levels. This may include reducing salt intake, engaging in regular exercise, quitting smoking, and managing stress levels. Additionally, medication may be prescribed if blood pressure levels remain high despite lifestyle changes.
It is important for older adults to work closely with their healthcare provider to monitor their blood pressure and maintain optimal health.
Why is the diastolic number a better indicator of heart health?
The diastolic number, which is the bottom number when measuring blood pressure, is considered a better indicator of heart health because it measures the pressure in the arteries when the heart is at rest between beats. This is a critical moment for the heart because it allows it to rest and fill with oxygen-rich blood before the next contraction.
When the diastolic pressure is high, it means that the arteries are under constant stress and are not able to fully rest and fill with oxygen-rich blood. This constant stress can lead to damage and narrowing of the arteries, which can increase the risk of developing conditions such as hypertension, stroke, and heart disease.
Furthermore, research has shown that high diastolic pressure can also cause damage to the heart muscle itself, which can lead to a heart attack or heart failure. This is because when the heart is under constant stress, it has to work harder to pump blood through the narrowed and damaged arteries, which can cause it to become enlarged and weakened over time.
In contrast, when the diastolic pressure is within a normal range, it indicates that the arteries are able to rest and fill with blood, which allows the heart to function more efficiently and reduces the risk of developing heart disease or other cardiovascular conditions.
Therefore, monitoring diastolic pressure is crucial for maintaining heart health, and a consistently high diastolic pressure should be addressed promptly to prevent potential health complications.
What are the 5 warning signs of a stroke?
A stroke is a serious medical emergency that occurs when blood flow to the brain is interrupted or reduced. The warning signs of a stroke can be sudden and can include a range of symptoms. However, there are five main warning signs that people should be aware of. These include:
1. Face drooping: A common warning sign of a stroke is drooping or numbness of the face. One side of the face may appear droopy or uneven, and the person may have difficulty smiling or speaking.
2. Arm weakness: Another warning sign of a stroke is weakness or numbness in one or both arms. The person may be unable to lift one or both arms, or they may experience a sudden onset of weakness or numbness in the arms.
3. Speech difficulties: People who are experiencing a stroke may have difficulty speaking, slurring their words, or experiencing confusion or difficulty understanding what others are saying.
4. Vision changes: Another warning sign of a stroke is sudden changes in vision, such as vision loss or blurriness. The person may notice a sudden onset of vision changes in one or both eyes.
5. Headache: A severe headache can also be a warning sign of a stroke. The headache may be sudden and severe and may be accompanied by other symptoms such as dizziness, confusion, or difficulty speaking.
It’s important to note that these warning signs can vary from person to person, and not everyone will experience all the symptoms. However, if you or someone you know is experiencing any of these warning signs, it’s important to seek medical attention immediately. Prompt treatment can help minimize the damage caused by a stroke and improve the chances of a full recovery.
Resources
- Which blood pressure number matters most? – Harvard Health
- Which blood pressure number matters most? The answer …
- Isolated systolic hypertension: A health concern? – Mayo Clinic
- Which Is More Important: Systolic or Diastolic Blood … – BuzzRx
- Which Is More Important: Systolic or Diastolic … – MedicineNet
