Do you know the stages of hypertension?

Almost 50% of U.S. adults are living with hypertension, also known as high blood pressure, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The condition oftentimes causes no symptoms. However, untreated hypertension can lead to serious health events, including stroke and heart attack.

A normal blood pressure reading is no greater than 120/80 mm Hg. The other stages of hypertension are defined as:

• Elevated: 120-129/80 or lower
• Hypertension Stage 1: 130-139/80-89
• Hypertension Stage 2: 140 or higher/90 or higher
• Hypertensive Crisis: 180 or higher/120 or higher

Dr. Louie Coulis, a cardiologist at Aurora Health Care, explains how a person is diagnosed with hypertension. “If a person has one concerning blood pressure reading, they are not immediately considered hypertensive. We average two or more readings, listen to the heart and take into consideration factors including ongoing symptoms and medical history.”

Dr. Coulis outlines some of the most popular causes of hypertension:

• Lifestyle choices: Poor diet, limited exercise, smoking and drinking all contribute to an increased likelihood of high blood pressure.
• Age and genetics: A family history of hypertension and older age increase your risk of developing the condition. Black individuals are also more likely to be affected.
• Other health conditions: Diabetes and obesity increase the risk of developing hypertension.

After you are diagnosed with hypertension, Dr. Coulis says the treatment plan can vary. “Some patients undergo additional testing so we can help identify the cause of their hypertension. This may include bloodwork, an electrocardiogram, and a longer blood pressure monitoring test. We also ask patients with hypertension to monitor their blood pressure at home. If it is appropriate, a patient may also be placed on blood pressure medication.”

He urges everyone to make healthy lifestyle choices to help reduce their risk of developing hypertension.

“Make sure you are getting at least 30 minutes a day of physical activity. It’s also important to eat a low-sodium diet complete with fruits and vegetables. Skip foods high in unhealthy fats and added sugar as much as possible. Moderate your alcohol consumption and avoid smoking entirely,” Dr. Coulis says.

Want to learn more about your risk for heart disease? Take a free online quiz.