144 over 104 blood pressure

Charlotte

2 min read

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26-02-2025

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Understanding a 144/104 Blood Pressure Reading

What does 144/104 mean?

A blood pressure reading of 144/104 mmHg is considered high blood pressure, also known as hypertension. This is a serious health concern that requires immediate attention. Let's break down what these numbers mean:

• 144 (Systolic Pressure): This is the pressure in your arteries when your heart beats. A reading of 144 is significantly above the ideal range.
• 104 (Diastolic Pressure): This is the pressure in your arteries when your heart rests between beats. A reading of 104 is also considerably high.

Why is 144/104 considered high?

High blood pressure puts extra strain on your blood vessels and organs. Over time, this can lead to serious health problems, including:

• Heart disease: High blood pressure damages the heart muscle and arteries, increasing the risk of heart attack and stroke.
• Stroke: High blood pressure weakens blood vessels in the brain, increasing the risk of rupture and bleeding.
• Kidney disease: High blood pressure damages the kidneys, impacting their ability to filter waste from the blood.
• Vision problems: High blood pressure can damage the blood vessels in the eyes, leading to vision loss or blindness.

What should you do if your blood pressure is 144/104?

Do not ignore this reading. A single high reading doesn't necessarily mean you have chronic hypertension, but it warrants immediate medical attention. Here's what you should do:

1. Monitor your blood pressure: Take your blood pressure several times over the next few days, at different times of the day. Keep a record of these readings.
2. Consult your doctor: Schedule an appointment with your physician as soon as possible. They can determine the underlying cause of your high blood pressure and recommend appropriate treatment.
3. Lifestyle changes: While waiting for your appointment, consider making some lifestyle modifications that can help lower your blood pressure:
   • Reduce sodium intake: Limit your consumption of processed foods, fast food, and salty snacks.
   • Increase physical activity: Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise per week.
   • Maintain a healthy weight: Losing even a small amount of weight can significantly impact blood pressure.
   • Limit alcohol consumption: Excessive alcohol intake raises blood pressure.
   • Quit smoking: Smoking significantly increases the risk of high blood pressure and heart disease.
   • Manage stress: Find healthy ways to manage stress, such as yoga, meditation, or spending time in nature.

What causes high blood pressure?

High blood pressure can be caused by a variety of factors, including:

• Genetics: A family history of high blood pressure increases your risk.
• Age: Blood pressure tends to rise with age.
• Diet: A diet high in sodium and saturated fats can contribute to high blood pressure.
• Lack of physical activity: Sedentary lifestyles increase the risk of high blood pressure.
• Obesity: Being overweight or obese increases blood pressure.
• Stress: Chronic stress can elevate blood pressure.
• Certain medical conditions: Kidney disease, sleep apnea, and diabetes can all contribute to high blood pressure.

Long-Term Management of High Blood Pressure:

Your doctor will likely recommend a combination of lifestyle changes and medication to manage your blood pressure long-term. This may include:

• Medication: Different types of medications are available to lower blood pressure, depending on your individual needs and health conditions.
• Regular checkups: Regular monitoring of blood pressure is crucial to ensure the effectiveness of treatment.

In Conclusion:

A blood pressure of 144/104 is a serious concern. Seek immediate medical attention to determine the cause and develop a treatment plan. Making healthy lifestyle choices can significantly improve your blood pressure and overall health. Remember, consistent monitoring and adherence to your doctor's recommendations are key to managing high blood pressure effectively.