Both numbers in your blood pressure reading are important, but they indicate different aspects of your cardiovascular health.
The top number, known as systolic blood pressure, represents the pressure in your arteries when your heart contracts and pumps blood out. The bottom number, called diastolic blood pressure, indicates the pressure in your arteries when your heart is at rest and refilling with blood.
For most people, including those with hypertension (high blood pressure), both numbers are crucial in determining their overall cardiovascular health. However, in certain situations, healthcare professionals might pay more attention to one number over the other:
Hypertension Diagnosis: A diagnosis of hypertension is typically made when your blood pressure consistently reads 130/80 mmHg or higher. Both numbers are considered, so if either the systolic or diastolic readings are consistently high, it is cause for concern.
Risk Assessment: Both numbers contribute to your overall cardiovascular risk. Higher systolic blood pressure is generally considered a more significant risk factor for older adults, while higher diastolic blood pressure tends to be more concerning for younger individuals.
Target for Treatment: If you have hypertension and your doctor recommends medication or lifestyle changes to manage it, they will often set target values for both systolic and diastolic blood pressure. These targets will depend on your age, any underlying health conditions, and other risk factors.
Organ Damage: Both high systolic and high diastolic blood pressure can lead to organ damage over time. Elevated systolic pressure can strain the arteries and contribute to atherosclerosis (narrowing and hardening of arteries), while elevated diastolic pressure can put extra stress on the heart muscle.
It's essential to monitor both numbers and work with your healthcare provider to manage your blood pressure effectively. Lifestyle changes such as adopting a balanced diet, regular exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, reducing salt intake, managing stress, and avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol can play a significant role in blood pressure management. If lifestyle changes alone are insufficient, medication may be prescribed by your doctor to help control your blood pressure and reduce the risk of complications. Always consult with your healthcare provider to understand what your blood pressure readings mean for your specific health situation.