Quite strange, but true, you might end up with high blood pressure simply because the guidelines of the American Heart Association went through some changes. If you have the same level of blood pressure for two years in a row, and your doctor suddenly claims that you have high blood pressure, it is time to check the new guidelines.

These guidelines are actually changed for a very good reason – to avoid and prevent heart attacks and strokes. By changing the meaning of high blood pressure, people will start to care about themselves before it is too late.

The new guidelines state that 130/90 millimeters of mercury (mm Hg) or higher is now considered high. Before, it was 140/90 mm Hg for younger than 65, and 150/80 mm Hg for older.

In the past, the standard number was 140 mm Hg for the systolic number. However, 120 mm Hg or 130 mm Hg can indicate risk for cardiovascular conditions.  Having a blood pressure of 140/90 mm Hg or higher is considered Stage 2 hypertension and 180/120 mm Hg a hypertensive crisis.

How to measure your blood pressure

If this has made you think, you can get a blood pressure monitor which costs around 50 to 100 dollars. However, if you are already struggling with high blood pressure, you might get this monitor by your insurance.

The best monitors are the ones that can be wrapped around your arm beneath your armpit. Also, they are digital and some of them can be plugged to a smartphone so that you can record your measures.

Before checking your blood pressure, don’t drink alcohol or coffee. Make sure that you are completely relaxed and don’t talk in order to get the real answer. Also, it is important to measure your blood pressure twice in order to be completely sure.

The good part is that these guidelines don’t change a thing about your medications. If you are struggling with high blood pressure, you can start a medication or simply change some things about your lifestyle, especially your diet. Start being physically active and exercise, or learn new methods that can promote relaxation.

This has been proven to work when treating high blood pressure.

Make sure that you are constantly doing the best you can to lead a healthy life. Take care about yourself and avoid numerous conditions such as heart attacks and strokes.

Sources:
www.acc.org
newsroom.heart.org