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144 104 blood pressure

144 104 blood pressure

2 min read 05-02-2025
144 104 blood pressure

Understanding a 144/104 Blood Pressure Reading

What does 144/104 blood pressure mean? A blood pressure reading of 144/104 mmHg is considered stage 2 hypertension, also known as high blood pressure. This means your blood pressure is significantly higher than it should be, putting you at increased risk for serious health problems. Let's break down what this reading means and what you should do.

Understanding Blood Pressure Numbers

Blood pressure is measured in two numbers:

  • Systolic Pressure (the top number): This measures the pressure in your arteries when your heart beats. A reading of 144 is significantly elevated.
  • Diastolic Pressure (the bottom number): This measures the pressure in your arteries between heartbeats. A reading of 104 is also significantly elevated.

A reading of 144/104 falls squarely into the stage 2 hypertension range, requiring immediate medical attention.

What Causes High Blood Pressure (Hypertension)?

Several factors contribute to high blood pressure. Some are modifiable, meaning you can control them, while others are not. These include:

  • Age: Blood pressure tends to rise with age.
  • Genetics: Family history of high blood pressure increases your risk.
  • Lifestyle Factors: These are crucial and often the most impactful. They include:
    • Diet: High sodium intake, unhealthy fats, and lack of fruits and vegetables contribute to high blood pressure.
    • Weight: Obesity is strongly linked to hypertension.
    • Physical Activity: Lack of regular exercise increases your risk.
    • Smoking: Smoking damages blood vessels and raises blood pressure.
    • Alcohol Consumption: Excessive alcohol use can elevate blood pressure.
    • Stress: Chronic stress can significantly impact blood pressure.

Potential Health Risks of Untreated Hypertension

High blood pressure, if left untreated, dramatically increases your risk of developing serious health complications, including:

  • Heart attack: High blood pressure strains the heart, leading to increased risk of heart attack.
  • Stroke: High blood pressure damages blood vessels in the brain, increasing stroke risk.
  • Kidney disease: High blood pressure damages the kidneys over time.
  • Heart failure: The heart works harder to pump blood against high pressure, eventually leading to failure.
  • Vision problems: High blood pressure can damage blood vessels in the eyes.
  • Aneurysm: High blood pressure weakens artery walls, increasing the risk of aneurysm.

What to Do if Your Blood Pressure is 144/104

A single high reading doesn't always indicate a persistent problem. However, 144/104 is a serious reading. You should seek immediate medical attention. Don't delay; contact your doctor or go to an urgent care facility or emergency room. Your doctor will likely:

  • Take additional blood pressure readings: To confirm the initial reading.
  • Order tests: To rule out underlying causes and assess organ damage.
  • Recommend lifestyle changes: Including diet, exercise, and stress management techniques.
  • Prescribe medication: If lifestyle changes are insufficient to control blood pressure.

Lifestyle Changes to Lower Blood Pressure

Even if medication is prescribed, lifestyle changes are crucial for managing hypertension effectively. Consider these:

  • DASH Diet: The Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension diet emphasizes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein.
  • Regular Exercise: Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise per week.
  • Weight Management: Losing even a small amount of weight can make a difference.
  • Sodium Restriction: Limit your sodium intake to less than 2,300 mg per day.
  • Quit Smoking: Smoking cessation is vital for cardiovascular health.
  • Limit Alcohol: Moderate or abstain from alcohol consumption.
  • Stress Management: Practice relaxation techniques like yoga, meditation, or deep breathing.

This information is for general knowledge and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with your doctor for diagnosis and treatment of high blood pressure. Regular monitoring and adherence to your doctor's recommendations are critical for managing your condition and preventing serious complications. A 144/104 blood pressure reading necessitates prompt medical attention and a proactive approach to managing your cardiovascular health.

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