High blood pressure, or hypertension, is a common health problem that raises the risk of heart attacks, strokes, and other serious diseases.
For years, doctors have tried to control both parts of a blood pressure reading: the top number (called systolic) and the bottom number (called diastolic). But new research shows that the top number may be much more important than the bottom one when it comes to treating high blood pressure.
Blood pressure is measured using two numbers. The systolic number shows how hard your heart pumps blood through your arteries. The diastolic number shows the pressure in your arteries when your heart is resting between beats.
In the past, doctors believed that both numbers had to stay in a certain healthy range to prevent health problems. But a recent study suggests that it might be more useful to focus mostly on lowering the systolic number.
This study was done by researchers from NUI Galway and other places. They looked at health data from more than 47,000 people around the world to see what happens when blood pressure is lowered. One question they wanted to answer was whether bringing the diastolic number too low could be harmful.
To their surprise, the researchers found no proof that having a low diastolic number was dangerous. This goes against what many doctors have thought for a long time.
Because of this finding, the researchers now suggest that doctors should aim to get their patients’ systolic blood pressure between 100 and 130 mmHg. They say it’s not necessary to worry as much about how low the diastolic number goes.
This discovery could change how doctors treat high blood pressure. By focusing more on lowering the systolic number, doctors may help reduce the risk of heart attacks, strokes, and other related problems.
Of course, preventing high blood pressure before it starts is also very important. People can take several simple steps to lower their risk:
Keeping a healthy weight can reduce the strain on the heart. Eating a balanced diet full of fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains helps maintain healthy blood pressure. It’s also important to limit salt, as too much sodium can raise blood pressure.
Being active on a regular basis strengthens the heart and lowers blood pressure. Limiting alcohol to one or two drinks per day and avoiding smoking are also smart steps. Managing stress with activities like yoga, meditation, or deep breathing can help too.
Lastly, regular blood pressure checks are vital. High blood pressure usually has no signs or symptoms, so people often don’t know they have it. Getting tested allows for early treatment, which can prevent serious health problems.
This new study, led by Dr. Bill McEvoy and published in the journal Circulation, may lead to a new way of thinking about blood pressure treatment. Putting more attention on the systolic number could give patients better protection against the risks of hypertension.
In short, while doctors have long focused on both numbers in a blood pressure reading, this new research suggests the top number might matter most. With smart lifestyle choices and regular checkups, people can keep their blood pressure under control and stay healthier for longer.
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