Hypertension can contribute to heart and vascular issues. We manage high blood pressure through personalized treatment plans, including lifestyle modifications and medications, to lower your risk of complications.
What is Blood Pressure?
Blood pressure (BP), or hypertension, is the force exerted by blood on artery walls with each heartbeat. It is measured as systolic pressure (blood pressure when the heart beats) and diastolic pressure (blood pressure between beats when the heart is at rest). Normal BP falls within the range of ≤120 (systolic blood pressure)/80 (diastolic blood pressure) mmHg, while high blood pressure is diagnosed when the pressure exceeds ≥140/90 mmHg.
Blood Pressure Dynamics :
Blood pressure is not static; it fluctuates throughout the day, influenced by activity levels. It tends to decrease during restful periods and rise with increased excitement, anxiety, or physical activity.
Blood Pressure Categories for Adults:
In adults, blood pressure is classified into the following categories:
Normal: < 120 (Systolic) / < 80 (Diastolic) mm Hg
Pre-hypertension: 120–139 (Systolic) or 80-89 (Diastolic)
High Blood Pressure:
Stage 1: 140-159 (Systolic) or 90-99 (Diastolic)
Stage 2: ≥ 160 (Systolic) or ≥ 100 (Diastolic)
The Heart’s Anatomy and Blood Pressure:
The heart, a powerful muscle, propels oxygen-rich blood throughout the body. It comprises four chambers: two atria and two ventricles. The left ventricle’s contraction generates systolic blood pressure, the force on arterial walls during this phase, while diastolic pressure represents the pressure dip when the ventricle relaxes to refill.
Factors Contributing to High Blood Pressure:
Though the precise cause of high blood pressure remains elusive, several factors elevate the risk of developing it:
Consequences of Untreated High Blood Pressure:
Untreated high blood pressure, often symptomless for years, can harm blood vessels, the heart, kidneys, and other organs. This damage may lead to severe health issues, including heart attacks, kidney failure, blindness, strokes, and coronary heart diseases.
Symptoms of High Blood Pressure:
High blood pressure is typically asymptomatic. It manifests symptoms only when blood pressure levels rise dangerously high, resulting in severe headaches, breathlessness, extreme anxiety, and nosebleeds.
Stages of High Blood Pressure:
High blood pressure is categorized into two stages based on blood pressure readings. Stage 1 is characterized by a systolic blood pressure of 140-159 or a diastolic pressure of 90-99. In Stage 2, systolic pressure is 160 or above, with diastolic pressure at 100 or above. Readings between 120-139 systolic pressure and 80-89 diastolic pressure fall under prehypertension.
Diagnosing High Blood Pressure:
High blood pressure is diagnosed through a straightforward blood pressure test employing an electronic sensor and cuff. This test is repeated to confirm elevated BP. If readings consistently surpass 140/90, a diagnosis of high blood pressure is likely.
Treatment for High Blood Pressure:
High blood pressure can detrimentally affect multiple organs like the brain, heart, and kidneys. Physicians prescribe various medications to control it. In cases where a single drug is ineffective, combinations of two or more drugs may be used.
Lifestyle Modifications:
Incorporating simple lifestyle changes can prevent the progression from prehypertension to hypertension and enhance the effectiveness of prescribed medications. These modifications may include:
Managing Hypertension:
Hypertension cannot be cured but should be managed throughout life. By adhering to your medication regimen and adopting a healthy lifestyle, you can mitigate the risk of life-threatening complications.
115 Frankston – Flinders Rd
Frankston VIC 3199
The following transport lines have routes that pass near Frankston-Flinders Rd / Golf Links Rd (Frankston South)
Bus: 775, 776, 782, 783, 791
T: (03) 9783 3684
F: (03) 9770 0325
info@southerncardiology.com.au
Southern Cardiology Group
115 Frankston – Flinders Rd
Frankston VIC 3199
Mon: 8:30 am – 4:30 pm
Tue: 8:30 am – 4:30 pm
Wed: 8:30 am – 4:30 pm
Thu: 8:30 am – 4:30 pm
Fri: 8:30 am – 4:30 pm
Sat: Closed
Sun: Closed
Public Holidays: Closed
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