Is 126/92 High Blood Pressure?
In 2017, the American Heart Association (AHA) updated its guidelines for blood pressure classification, lowering the threshold for high blood pressure (hypertension) from 140/90 mmHg to 130/80 mmHg. This change was based on research showing that even slightly elevated blood pressure can increase the risk of heart disease, stroke, and other health problems.
Under the new guidelines, a blood pressure reading of 126/92 mmHg would be considered elevated, but not yet high. However, it’s important to note that any blood pressure reading above 120/80 mmHg is considered elevated and should be monitored closely.
What Does the Research Say?
Numerous studies have shown that elevated blood pressure is associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease. For example, a study published in the journal Hypertension found that people with a blood pressure of 126/92 mmHg had a 27% higher risk of developing heart disease than those with a blood pressure of 120/80 mmHg.
Another study, published in the journal Circulation, found that people with a blood pressure of 126/92 mmHg were at an increased risk of developing stroke, heart failure, and kidney disease.
What Should You Do?
If your blood pressure is 126/92 mmHg, you should talk to your doctor about your risk of developing cardiovascular disease. Your doctor may recommend lifestyle changes, such as:
- Losing weight
- Eating a healthy diet
- Getting regular exercise
- Quitting smoking
- Reducing stress
Your doctor may also recommend medication to lower your blood pressure.
Conclusion
While a blood pressure reading of 126/92 mmHg is not considered high blood pressure, it is elevated and should be monitored closely. Lifestyle changes can help to lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of developing cardiovascular disease. If your blood pressure is 126/92 mmHg or higher, talk to your doctor about your risk factors and treatment options.
Additional Information
- The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that 1 in 3 adults in the United States has high blood pressure.
- High blood pressure is a major risk factor for heart disease, stroke, kidney disease, and other health problems.
- Lifestyle changes can help to lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of developing cardiovascular disease.
- If you have high blood pressure, talk to your doctor about your risk factors and treatment options.
FAQs
- What is the normal blood pressure range?
The normal blood pressure range is 120/80 mmHg.
- What is elevated blood pressure?
Elevated blood pressure is a blood pressure reading between 120/80 mmHg and 129/80 mmHg.
- What is high blood pressure?
High blood pressure is a blood pressure reading of 130/80 mmHg or higher.
- What are the symptoms of high blood pressure?
High blood pressure usually does not cause any symptoms. However, some people with high blood pressure may experience headaches, blurred vision, chest pain, or shortness of breath.
- What are the risk factors for high blood pressure?
Risk factors for high blood pressure include:
* Age
* Family history of high blood pressure
* Race (African Americans are at a higher risk for high blood pressure than other racial groups)
* Obesity
* Unhealthy diet
* Physical inactivity
* Smoking
* Excessive alcohol intake
* Stress
- What are the complications of high blood pressure?
Complications of high blood pressure include:
* Heart disease
* Stroke
* Kidney disease
* Eye damage
* Nerve damage
- How is high blood pressure treated?
High blood pressure is treated with lifestyle changes and medication.
Tables
Table 1: Blood Pressure Classification
| Blood Pressure Category | Systolic Blood Pressure (mmHg) | Diastolic Blood Pressure (mmHg) |
|---|---|---|
| Normal | Less than 120 | Less than 80 |
| Elevated | 120-129 | Less than 80 |
| Stage 1 Hypertension | 130-139 | 80-89 |
| Stage 2 Hypertension | 140 or higher | 90 or higher |
Table 2: Risk of Cardiovascular Disease by Blood Pressure Category
| Blood Pressure Category | Relative Risk of Cardiovascular Disease |
|---|---|
| Normal | 1.0 |
| Elevated | 1.27 |
| Stage 1 Hypertension | 1.69 |
| Stage 2 Hypertension | 2.37 |
Table 3: Lifestyle Changes to Lower Blood Pressure
| Lifestyle Change | Effect on Blood Pressure (mmHg) |
|---|---|
| Weight loss | -5 to -10 |
| Healthy diet | -5 to -10 |
| Regular exercise | -5 to -10 |
| Quitting smoking | -5 to -10 |
| Reducing stress | -2 to -5 |
Table 4: Medications Used to Treat High Blood Pressure
| Medication Class | Mechanism of Action | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| ACE inhibitors | Block the action of angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) | Lisinopril, ramipril, captopril |
| Angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs) | Block the action of angiotensin II | Losartan, valsartan, candesartan |
| Beta-blockers | Block the action of beta-adrenergic receptors | Metoprolol, atenolol, propranolol |
| Calcium channel blockers | Block the flow of calcium into cells | Amlodipine, diltiazem, verapamil |
| Diuretics | Increase the flow of urine | Hydrochlorothiazide, furosemide, spironolactone |
