Understanding High Systolic Blood Pressure

Introduction

High systolic blood pressure (SBP) occurs when the upper number in a blood pressure reading is elevated, typically above 130 mmHg. This is an indicator of increased pressure in the arteries during heart contraction, which can contribute to cardiovascular disease.

Causes of High Systolic Blood Pressure

  • Aging: Artery stiffness increases with age.
  • Hypertension (High Blood Pressure): Chronic condition leading to elevated SBP.
  • Lifestyle Factors: Poor diet, lack of exercise, obesity.
  • Medical Conditions: Kidney disease, thyroid disorders, diabetes.
  • Medications: Some drugs (e.g., NSAIDs, decongestants) can raise blood pressure.

Symptoms and Risks

High systolic blood pressure may not cause symptoms initially but increases the risk of: - Stroke - Heart attack - Heart failure - Kidney disease - Cognitive impairment

Diagnosis and Blood Pressure Monitoring

  • Normal BP: Below 120/80 mmHg
  • Elevated SBP: 120-129 mmHg
  • Stage 1 Hypertension: 130-139 mmHg
  • Stage 2 Hypertension: 140 mmHg or higher
  • Hypertensive Crisis: 180/120 mmHg or higher (seek immediate medical help)

Management and Treatment

Lifestyle Modifications

  • Healthy Diet: Follow the DASH diet (rich in fruits, vegetables, and low sodium).
  • Exercise: At least 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week.
  • Weight Control: Maintain a healthy BMI.
  • Reduce Salt Intake: Less than 2.3 grams/day.
  • Limit Alcohol and Quit Smoking.

Medications (if needed)

  • ACE inhibitors, ARBs, beta-blockers, calcium-channel blockers, or diuretics as prescribed by a doctor.

Conclusion

High systolic blood pressure requires attention to prevent serious cardiovascular complications. Routine monitoring and lifestyle changes can help maintain cardiovascular health. Seek medical advice if your blood pressure remains high despite interventions.

Source recommendations

1. American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association Hypertension Guidelines

  1. https://www.acc.org/Latest-in-Cardiology/Articles/2024/02/05/11/43/2023-ESH-Hypertension-Guideline-Update
  2. https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/hyp.0000000000000065
  3. https://www.acc.org/Latest-in-Cardiology/ten-points-to-remember/2017/11/09/11/41/2017-Guideline-for-High-Blood-Pressure-in-Adults
  4. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29133356/
  5. https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/CIRCULATIONAHA.121.054602

2. European Society of Cardiology/European Society of Hypertension Guidelines

  1. https://www.escardio.org/Guidelines/Clinical-Practice-Guidelines/Elevated-Blood-Pressure-and-Hypertension
  2. https://www.ejinme.com/article/S0953-6205(24)00238-3/fulltext
  3. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37345492/
  4. https://academic.oup.com/eurheartj/article/39/33/3021/5079119
  5. https://www.eshonline.org/

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