High blood pressure is also known as hypertension. Blood pressure is the amount of force exerted against the walls of the arteries as blood flows through them.
Blood pressure is the measure of the force of blood pushing against blood vessel walls. The heart pumps blood into the arteries (blood vessels), which carry the blood throughout the body. High blood pressure is dangerous because it makes the heart work harder to pump blood out to the body and contributes to hardening of the arteries, or atherosclerosis, to stroke, kidney disease, and to the development of heart failure
If a person has high blood pressure it means that the walls of the arteries are receiving too much pressure repeatedly – the pressure needs to be chronically elevated for a diagnosis of hypertension to be confirmed.
Very high blood pressure can cause symptoms such as headache, nausea and vomiting, mental confusion, vision changes, chest pain, or shortness of breath. If you notice any of these symptoms along with a blood pressure above 180/110, your high blood pressure is considered a hypertensive emergency.
Blood Pressure 240/210
If the result of measuring blood pressure of 240/210 is necessary to ensure good blood pressure monitor, the easiest way to carry out a control measurement of BP on the opposite arm.
Likely that was incorrectly located the blood pressure cuff (not over the artery on which the measurement is made) or the hand and heart of the patient are not at the same level (as recommended by the measurement methodology).
If the result of the blood pressure measurements are confirmed by human BP 240 over 210 – this may cause weakness, headache and loss of consciousness. With this blood pressure you better consult a doctor for further advice, because remotely to determine the cause of the blood pressure of 240/210 is very difficult.
Important: This blood pressure is NOT NORMAL and can cause a hypertensive crisis. You need to go to the hospital for medical help or take medication to lower blood pressure.
Understanding Blood Pressure Readings
The top number refers to the amount of pressure in your arteries during contraction of your heart muscle. This is called systolic pressure. The bottom number refers to your blood pressure when your heart muscle is between beats. This is called diastolic pressure. Both numbers are important in determining the state of your heart health.
A blood pressure reading has a top number (systolic) and bottom number (diastolic). The ranges are:
- Normal: Less than 120 over 80 (120/80)
- Prehypertension: 120-139 over 80-89
- Stage 1 high blood pressure: 140-159 over 90-99
- Stage 2 high blood pressure: 160 and above over 100 and above
- High blood pressure in people over age 60: 150 and above over 90 and above
People whose blood pressure is above the normal range should consult their doctor about steps to take to lower it.
Symptoms of high blood pressure
High blood pressure symptoms typically include:
- Headache – usually, this will last for several days.
- Nausea – a sensation of unease and discomfort in the stomach with an urge to vomit.
- Vomiting – less common than just nausea.
- Dizziness – Lightheadedness, unsteadiness, and vertigo.
- Blurred or double vision (diplopia).
- Epistaxis – nosebleeds.
- Palpitations – disagreeable sensations of irregular and/or forceful beating of the heart.
- Dyspnea – breathlessness, shortness of breath.
Anybody who experiences these symptoms should see their doctor immediately.
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