What is high blood pressure? High blood pressure is common, and many Americans don't know they have it. Elevated blood pressure is defined as a systolic pressure above 120, but a diastolic pressure below 80 at rest. High blood pressure in adults is defined as a resting blood pressure above 130/80, but note that readings in women are usually five points lower. Average blood pressure also varies by age group.

• Categories of high blood pressure
• High pressure stage 1: between 130/80 and 140/90
• High blood pressure grade 2: above 140/90
• If your blood pressure is higher than 180 systolic or 120 diastolic, contact your doctor immediately. This range of blood pressure is considered a hypertensive crisis and can lead to sudden hypertension.

What is a hypertensive crisis? A hypertensive crisis is a serious increase in blood pressure that can lead to a stroke. Extremely high blood pressure - an upper number (systolic pressure) of 180 millimeters of mercury (mm Hg) or higher or a lower number (diastolic pressure) of 120 mm Hg or higher - can damage blood vessels. How do you feel when your blood pressure is high? Unfortunately, high blood pressure can occur without experiencing any unusual symptoms. Moderate to severe headaches, anxiety, shortness of breath, nosebleeds, palpitations or a throbbing sensation in the neck are some signs of high blood pressure. Monitoring blood pressure is key to preventing life-threatening high-pressure headaches. Doctors sometimes call high blood pressure the "silent killer" because it usually causes symptoms only in very severe cases. (2) Do not abruptly stop taking blood pressure medications, as this can cause 3. hypertensive crisis 4. avoid illegal drugs such as cocaine and amphetamines 5. exercise regularly 6. follow a healthy diet and reduce salt intake 7. limit alcohol consumption 8 Coping with stress 9. getting enough quality sleep