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What Causes Diastolic Blood Pressure To Rise

What Are The Possible Signs And Symptoms Of Low Diastolic Blood Pressure

Can Exercise Cause Increase In Diastolic Blood Pressure If Not What Does?

A diastolic blood pressure of somewhere between 60 and 90 mm Hg is good in older people. Once your blood pressure reading plummets to below 60 mm Hg, you may faint.

Many older people with low DBP get tired or dizzy and have frequent falls. Obviously, none of that is good news for people who are older and who may have brittle bones and poor healing. Common signs and symptoms of low DBP may include

Studies have reported that very low DBP is associated with an increased risk of heart disease. Importantly, a study found that low DBP was associated with an increased likelihood of coronary heart disease events and mortality. Studies have explained that if individuals have DBP that is too low, there might not be enough blood flow to the heart muscle itself. This could lead to heart attacks or weakening of the heart muscle.

When Should You See A Doctor

Early high blood pressure detection is essential. This silent killer often shows no warning signs and therefore puts people at a higher risk of conditions such as:

  • Heart disease

  • Stroke

Over 360,000 high-blood-pressure deaths occurred in 2016 in the US, whether hypertension was a contributing cause or the main cause.¹²

The only way to identify if you have high blood pressure is to measure it. You can visit your healthcare provider for regular blood pressure monitoring, or you can purchase a sphygmomanometer to measure your blood pressure at home.

If you’re at risk of high blood pressure, you need to schedule routine healthcare visits to monitor your blood pressure. You should also see your healthcare provider if you have high blood pressure and your efforts to reduce your blood pressure have been ineffective.

How Can You Reduce Your Risk Of High Blood Pressure

Fortunately, there are certain things you can do to help reduce your risk of developing high blood pressure. These include the following:

  • Eat right: A healthy diet is an important step in keeping your blood pressure normal. The DASH diet emphasizes adding fruits, vegetables and whole grains to your diet while reducing the amount of sodium. Since its rich in fruits and vegetables, which are naturally lower in sodium than many other foods, the DASH diet makes it easier to eat less salt and sodium.
  • Keep a healthy weight: Going hand-in-hand with a proper diet is keeping a healthy weight. Since being overweight increases your blood pressure, losing excess weight with diet and exercise will help lower your blood pressure to healthier levels.
  • Cut down on salt: The recommendation for salt in your diet is to have less than 1,500 milligrams of sodium a day . To prevent hypertension, you should keep your salt intake below this level. Don’t forget that most restaurant foods and many processed and frozen foods contain high levels of salt. Use herbs and spices that do not contain salt in recipes to flavor your food do not add salt at the table.
  • Keep active: Even simple physical activities, such as walking, can lower your blood pressure .
  • Drinkalcoholin moderation: Having more than one drink a day and two drinks a day can raise blood pressure.

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How Do You Treat Low Diastolic Blood Pressure

There are some things you can do to help prevent and manage low diastolic pressure. Try to keep your salt intake to between 1.5 and 4 grams per day. Eat a heart-healthy diet. Drink enough fluids and avoid alcohol, which can increase your risk for dehydration. Stay physically active and start an exercise program.

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Medicines For High Blood Pressure

Rise In Diastolic Blood Pressure Causes
Why are different people given different medicines?

People respond differently to blood pressure medicines. A number of things can affect how you respond to each medicine, including your ethnic background, age and how much salt you eat. It can take some trial and error to find the medicine or combination of medicines that works best for you.

Younger, non-black people tend to respond slightly better to ACE inhibitors and angiotensin receptor blockers. Older people and those of African or Caribbean origin tend to respond better to calcium-channel blockers and thiazide diuretics.

These will usually be the first medicines youre offered, aiming to keep the number of medicines needed to a minimum. Read more about finding the right medicines for you.

Should I be taking aspirin as well?

If you have high blood pressure, your doctor might recommend that you take aspirin if you are at a higher risk of heart attacks or strokes, for example, if you have had an ischaemic stroke caused by a blood clot or heart attack in the past. This is because aspirin thins your blood and prevents blood clots from forming.

Do not start taking aspirin regularly unless your doctor advsises you to because aspirinâs ability to prevent clots can raise the risk of bleeding from the stomach and intestines, it might also be linked to a higher risk of strokes caused by burst blood vessels.

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High Diastolic Blood Pressure Meaning

If youve noticed the lower number on your blood pressure measurements has been high lately, your curiosity may be peaked. Common thoughts may be, is it too high or should I be worried? Therefore, lets answer the question, what does it mean when the diastolic blood pressure number is high?

A high diastolic blood pressure number means the pressure against the artery walls is increased when the heart is relaxed. A consistently high diastolic number of 80 mmHg or more increases the risk of higher systolic blood pressure, ischemic heart disease and stroke as a person ages.

This article will explain details everyone should know about high diastolic blood pressure. Ill inform you what the different diastolic numbers indicate, causes, consequences and ways to lower it.

BP TIP: Lower BP by just breathing? A device is FDA approved and The American Heart Association gave it the thumbs up. It simply guides your breathing a few minutes a day which has been proven to lower BP as shown in studies. You can check it out in the manufacturers website by .

Disclaimer: Some links in this article are affiliate links which means I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. As an Amazon associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

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Reduce And Manage Stress

The body releases chemicals and hormones that can narrow the blood vessels temporarily when we are under stress. Stress also gets our heart beating faster. Long-term stress is thought to increase the risk of getting heart problems, such as stroke and heart attacks. Taking time to relax and practice stress-reducing exercises can be very helpful.

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What Does It Mean When The Systolic Number Is High

In practice, systolic blood pressure should be regarded as more important than diastolic blood pressure. Systolic blood pressure is the force generated on the inside of the blood vessels called the arteries when the heart contracts. According to a recent study, having a high systolic reading increased the risk of heart attacks and heart disease. Systolic blood pressure is linked not only with heart disease and heart failure but also with kidney disease and overall mortality. Research favored high systolic readings as most predictive of a harmful cardiovascular outcome. As a result, these readings were given more weightage in cardiology guidelines and risk estimation.

Healthy And Unhealthy Blood Pressure Ranges

Diastolic Blood Pressure

Learn whats considered normal, as recommended by the American Heart Association.

Blood Pressure Chart

SYSTOLIC mm Hg and/or DIASTOLIC mm Hg
NORMAL
HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE STAGE 1 130 139
HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE STAGE 2 140 OR HIGHER
HYPERTENSIVE CRISIS HIGHER THAN 180 and/or HIGHER THAN 120

Note: A diagnosis of high blood pressure must be confirmed with a medical professional. A doctor should also evaluate any unusually low blood pressure readings.

The five blood pressure ranges as recognized by the American Heart Association are:

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Normal Blood Pressure For Men And Women By Age

A normal blood pressure reading indicates that the heart and blood vessels are not working too hard pushing blood and that the blood is not exerting too much pressure on the walls of the vessels, says Aseem Desai, M.D., a cardiologist at Providence Mission Hospital in Southern California. Recent data from the American Heart Association suggests the optimal normal reading for adults over 20 is lower than 120/80 mmHgVirani S, et al. Heart disease and stroke statistics 2021 update . American Heart Association Journal. 2021 143:e254-e743. .

Dr. Desai notes blood pressure can vary depending on a persons age, gender, race and ethnicity, but it should still fall within the general normal range. While numbers lower than 120/80 are generally considered normal, Dr. Desai adds, The target blood pressure for treatment varies depending on age and associated co-morbidities .

Previously, guidance for normal blood pressure for adults varied by gender and specific age, but new data states normal blood pressure for adults as a collective is less than 120/80 mmHgHigh Blood Pressure Symptoms and Causes. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Accessed 7/16/2021. .

When it comes to race and ethnicity, Dr. Desai says certain groups have a higher rate of hypertension. Non-Hispanic Black people have a significantly higher rate of hypertension compared to non-Hispanic white people, and Hispanics and non-Hispanic Asians have lower rates than the first two, he says.

Which Number Is More Important

Typically, more attention is given to systolic blood pressure as a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease for people over 50. In most people, systolic blood pressure rises steadily with age due to the increasing stiffness of large arteries, long-term buildup of plaque and an increased incidence of cardiac and vascular disease.

However, either an elevated systolic or an elevated diastolic blood pressure reading may be used to make a diagnosis of high blood pressure. According to recent studies, the risk of death from ischemic heart disease and stroke doubles with every 20 mm Hg systolic or 10 mm Hg diastolic increase among people from age 40 to 89.

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With Which Drugs Do Nsaids Interact

NSAIDs reduce blood flow to the kidneys and therefore reduce the action of diuretics and decrease the elimination of lithium and methotrexate . As a result, the blood levels of these drugs may increase as may their side effects.

NSAIDs also decrease the ability of the blood to clot and therefore increase bleeding. When used with other drugs that also increase bleeding , there is an increased likelihood of serious bleeding or complications of bleeding. Therefore, individuals who are taking drugs that reduce the ability of blood to clot should avoid prolonged use of NSAIDs.

NSAIDs also may increase blood pressure in patients with hypertension and therefore antagonize the action of drugs that are used to treat hypertension.

NSAIDs increase the negative effect of cyclosporine on kidney function.

Persons who have more than three alcoholic beverages per day may be at increased risk of developing stomach ulcers when taking NSAIDs.

Should I Be Treated For Low Diastolic Blood Pressure

Rise In Diastolic Blood Pressure Causes

Most people with low diastolic blood pressure do not display any signs and symptoms and, hence, do not require any treatments. However, for symptomatic people

  • Careful examination that includes anemia screening and cardiovascular assessment is required. If they have low blood pressure due to certain medications, a change in the type of medication or dosage is necessary. They need to control alcohol and other addictions.
  • Regular exercise is compulsory.
  • Some leg exercises are necessary if they get up from prolonged rest.
  • The intake of salt and water should be increased but not above 1,500 mg salt a day.
  • If the problem still persists, a detailed cardiovascular check with neuroendocrine assessment is required.
  • There are certain medications such as fludrocortisone that may be prescribed in certain cases.

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Causes Of Secondary Hypertension

When high blood pressure arises suddenly due to an identifiable condition, its called secondary hypertension.

Some conditions and drugs can lead to secondary hypertension, including the following:

  • Kidney problems

Examples include pseudoephedrine and phenylephrine .

HormonesBirth control pills can also affect blood pressure. Women who take birth control pills usually experience a small rise in systolic and diastolic blood pressure .

Hormone therapy used to relieve symptoms of menopause can also cause a small rise in systolic blood pressure.

If you know you have high blood pressure, but are considering hormone therapy, talk with your doctor about the risks and benefits of undergoing hormone therapy, as well as the best ways to control your blood pressure.

Additionally, some recreational and illegal drugs, such as cocaine, ecstasy , and amphetamines, are also known to increase blood pressure.

What Is Isolated Diastolic Hypertension

Hypertension is a condition in which both systolic and diastolic blood pressures are high. However, you are likely suffering from isolated diastolic hypertension when your systolic blood pressure is normal, but your diastolic blood pressure consistently remains high .

IDH is not a very common type of hypertension. It only accounts for less than 20% of all hypertension cases in the United States. Like any other type of hypertension, IDH can elevate the risk of stroke , heart disease, heart failure, chronic kidney disease, hardening of arteries, vision loss, and many other medical complications.

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Causes Of Overall Low Blood Pressure

There are several common causes of overall hypotension, which would include a low diastolic number.

Medications

  • Overtreatment of high blood pressure. For some people, especially people over age 60, lowering systolic blood pressure below 120 may cause diastolic pressure to fall below 60.
  • Other medications. Many medications besides those for blood pressure can cause hypotension. They include:
  • drugs used to treat erectile dysfunction

Medical conditions

  • Heart problems. Heart valve problems, heart failure, and a very slow heart rate can lead to hypotension.
  • Dehydration. If you dont take in enough fluids, your blood pressure can fall dangerously low. This may happen if youre taking a diuretic and lose more fluids than you take in.

Treatment for low diastolic blood pressure largely depends on the type of hypotension. Your doctor will assess this closely to determine the appropriate treatment plan.

What Qualifies As High Blood Pressure

What is the Clinical Importance of Systolic and Diastolic Blood Pressure

Blood pressure consists of two numbers a top and bottom number. Thus, there are three types of hypertension.

  • High diastolic blood pressure called diastolic hypertension occurs when the bottom number is above 80 mmHg.
  • High systolic blood pressure called systolic hypertension is present when the top number is above 130 mmHG.
  • Mixed hypertension occurs when both numbers are high.
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    When To See A Doctor

    If a person who monitors their blood pressure at home does not see lower readings despite implementing lifestyle changes, they should get in touch with a doctor to determine the underlying cause of their high blood pressure.

    A person should seek immediate medical attention if they get two readings of 180/120 mm Hg or higher within a 5-minute period, especially if they are experiencing a headache or nosebleed.

    What Causes High Blood Pressure

    High blood pressure usually develops over time. It can happen because of unhealthy lifestyle choices, such as not getting enough regular physical activity. Certain health conditions, such as diabetes and having obesity, can also increase the risk for developing high blood pressure. High blood pressure can also happen during pregnancy.

    You can manage your blood pressure to lower your risk for serious health problems that may affect your heart, brain, kidneys, and eyes.

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    Causes Of Low Diastolic Blood Pressure

    There are three known causes of isolated diastolic hypotension:

    • Alpha-blocker medications. These blood pressure medications work by causing your blood vessels to open up . Because they lower diastolic pressure more than systolic pressure, they may cause isolated diastolic hypotension. Common brand names include Minipress and Cardura.
    • The aging process. As we age, we lose the elasticity of our arteries. For some older adults, arteries may become too stiff to spring back between heartbeats, causing diastolic blood pressure to be low.
    • Too much salt in your diet. Dietary salt can decrease elasticity of your blood vessels. If you take in too much salt, you may increase your risk for low diastolic blood pressure.

    There are several common causes of overall hypotension, which would include a low diastolic number.

    • Overtreatment of high blood pressure. For some people, especially people over age 60, lowering systolic blood pressure below 120 may cause diastolic pressure to fall below 60.

    Which Is More Important Systolic Or Diastolic Blood Pressure

    Diastolic Blood Pressure: What You Need To Know

    In practice, systolic blood pressure should be regarded as more important than diastolic blood pressure . In general, there is a high correlation between systolic blood pressure and heart health. However, both systolic blood pressure and DBP are important risk factors for heart disease.

    • Systolic blood pressure is the force generated on the inside of the blood vessels called the arteries when your heart contracts.
    • DBP is pressure placed on your arteries between beats when your heart is relaxed.

    According to a recent study, having DBP or systolic blood pressure thats too high is a health risk but for different reasons.

    • A high systolic reading increases the risk of heart attacks and heart disease more. Systolic blood pressure is most strongly linked with heart disease and heart failure but also with kidney disease and overall mortality.
    • A high diastolic reading was linked with a higher risk of disease of the large artery called the aorta that carries blood from the heart to the abdomen and chest. People with an elevated diastolic reading were more prone to develop an abdominal aortic aneurysm . The problem with such an enlargement is that it can lead to sudden rupture and a high risk of death.

    Research favored high systolic readings as the most predictive of a harmful cardiovascular outcome. As a result, these readings were given more weight in cardiology guidelines and in estimating risk.

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