Why do some people with 140 over 90 blood pressure need medication?

Author: Huazi Review: N/A Curator: N/A Production/Organizational Information: N/A Title: Why do some people with 140 over 90 blood pressure need medication? Introduction: At 140/90 mmHg, assess underlying conditions. Lifestyle changes may help, but consult a doctor if blood pressure remains high after 3 months. Keywords: ['Hypertension management', 'Lifestyle intervention'] Main text: A friend is feeling quite conflicted. He measured his blood pressure and it came out to be exactly 140/90 mmHg. Should he take blood pressure medication? Will he have to stay on the medication for life once he starts?

Hua Zi mentioned that a blood pressure reading of 140/90 mmHg is considered the diagnostic standard for hypertension in China. However, this does not necessarily mean that medication is required. Different risks call for different responses. If elevated blood pressure is detected for the first time, it is highly likely that it can be controlled through lifestyle interventions, potentially delaying the progression to true hypertension, and there is no need to rush into taking medication.

The diagnostic criteria for hypertension in China stipulate a systolic blood pressure (high pressure) of 140 mmHg or higher, or a diastolic blood pressure (low pressure) of 90 mmHg or higher.

However, a single blood pressure measurement exceeding 140/90 mmHg does not necessarily confirm a diagnosis of hypertension. Many factors, such as physical activity, anxiety, alcohol consumption, caffeine intake, holding urine, and cold temperatures, can temporarily elevate blood pressure. Additionally, about one-third of individuals experience "white coat hypertension" when having their blood pressure taken in a clinical setting, which can lead to measurement errors.

The diagnosis of hypertension requires that blood pressure measurements be taken on non-consecutive days, after a sufficient rest of more than 5 minutes, and that all three measurements are equal to or exceed 140/90 mmHg for a diagnosis of hypertension. Furthermore, home blood pressure monitoring is generally considered more accurate than measurements taken at a hospital, but a reading of 135/85 mmHg or higher during home testing is classified as hypertension.

Whether hypertension requires medication treatment mainly depends on the level of risk. For individuals who are newly diagnosed with slightly elevated blood pressure, fluctuating around 140/90 mmHg, and do not have diabetes, kidney disease, heart disease, or other underlying conditions, it is not necessary to rush into medication.

Individuals with this condition are likely experiencing high blood pressure due to unhealthy lifestyle habits. Typical characteristics include obesity, staying up late, high stress levels, and a strong preference for salty foods. By reducing salt intake to 3-5 grams per day, establishing regular routines, losing weight, and increasing physical activity, it is generally possible to effectively lower blood pressure within approximately three months.

However, for those with underlying health conditions, or for those whose blood pressure has already exceeded 160/100 mmHg, or for those who have attempted lifestyle interventions for three months without successful blood pressure reduction, it is advisable to see a doctor promptly to initiate medication treatment. The target blood pressure should ideally be controlled below 130/80 mmHg, with the best blood pressure being below 120/80 mmHg.

It is important for everyone to understand that antihypertensive medications are not ones you cannot stop taking once you start. Instead, high blood pressure cannot be completely cured; ongoing medication is necessary for management. It is similar to individuals with myopia needing glasses; it’s not that once you put them on, you cannot take them off. Rather, glasses only correct vision but do not restore normal eyesight. After removing them, vision will still appear blurry.

Most commonly used antihypertensive medications have been validated through decades of clinical application and possess a high safety profile, allowing for long-term use with very few occurrences of serious adverse reactions. In comparison to the complications caused by hypertension, such as stroke, renal failure, and heart failure, the benefits of regularly taking medication to control blood pressure far outweigh the risks.

In fact, discovering that your blood pressure has reached 140/90 mmHg serves as a health warning. As long as you take this opportunity to monitor your diet, increase physical activity, and ensure sufficient sleep, many individuals can avoid the need for antihypertensive medications for their entire lives. If lifestyle changes cannot adequately control your blood pressure, do not hesitate to start medication early to safeguard your health.

To summarize, if blood pressure reaches or slightly exceeds 140/90 mmHg, it is essential to evaluate the risk. If there are no other health conditions and the risk is relatively low, blood pressure can initially be managed with lifestyle interventions. However, if blood pressure remains uncontrolled after three months or if other underlying health issues arise, medication will be necessary for blood pressure control under the guidance of a physician.

If you have questions about medication, please consult a doctor or pharmacist. I am Huazi, a pharmacist, and I welcome you to follow me for more health information.