As a medical professional with expertise in cardiovascular health, I can provide you with an assessment of what a blood pressure reading of 140/90 means.
Blood pressure is measured in two numbers: the systolic pressure (the top number) and the diastolic pressure (the bottom number). The systolic pressure measures the force your heart exerts when it beats, while the diastolic pressure measures the force when your heart is at rest between beats.
A
blood pressure reading of 140/90 is considered to be at the higher end of the normal range and is often classified as
prehypertension. However, it is not yet in the hypertensive category but it is a warning sign that one's blood pressure is elevated and could potentially progress to
hypertension if not managed.
Prehypertension does not require medication treatment in most cases, but it does warrant lifestyle modifications. This includes:
1. Regular physical activity: Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity per week.
2. Healthy diet: Emphasize fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Limit sodium intake to less than 2,300 mg per day.
3. Maintaining a healthy weight: If overweight, losing even a small amount of weight can help lower blood pressure.
4. Limit alcohol: No more than one drink per day for women and two for men.
5. Quit smoking: Smoking can increase blood pressure and damage the heart and blood vessels.
It's important to monitor your blood pressure regularly and follow up with your healthcare provider to discuss any concerns or to make a plan for managing your numbers.
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