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Unmasking 10 Hypertension Stages & Myths: The Shocking Truth

Hypertension Stages

Last updated on April 11th, 2023 at 10:39 am

Hypertension, also known as high blood pressure, is a common condition that affects millions of people around the world. Despite its prevalence, there are many myths and misconceptions about hypertension that can prevent people from taking the necessary steps to prevent or manage the condition. It is important to know the stages of hypertension because it helps in determining the appropriate treatment plan for the patient. There are different treatment guidelines for each stage of hypertension, and knowing the stage can help the doctor choose the most effective medication and dosage.

In this article, we will debunk 10 hypertension myths and reveal the truth behind them. 

Hypertension Stages,

Hypertension Stages

Hypertension is classified into stages based on blood pressure readings. The following are the stages of hypertension based on the American Heart Association guidelines:

  1. Normal blood pressure: Systolic blood pressure less than 120 mm Hg and diastolic blood pressure less than 80 mm Hg.

  2. Elevated blood pressure: Systolic blood pressure between 120-129 mm Hg and diastolic blood pressure less than 80 mm Hg.

  3. Stage 1 hypertension: Systolic blood pressure between 130-139 mm Hg or diastolic blood pressure between 80-89 mm Hg.

  4. Stage 2 hypertension: Systolic blood pressure of 140 mm Hg or higher, or diastolic blood pressure of 90 mm Hg or higher.

It is important to note that hypertension can be asymptomatic, which means it may not present any symptoms. Therefore, regular blood pressure checks are essential for the early detection and management of hypertension. 

10 Hypertension Myths That You’ve Probably Believed – But The Truth Will Shock You!

#1. The modern blood pressure cuff has been around for more than 100 years.

That’s right! For more than 100 years we’ve been measuring this vital health statistic the same way. Invented by Samuel Siegfried Karl Ritter von Basch in 1881, the modern blood pressure cuff, or sphygmomanometer, was popularized by Dr. Harvey Cushing in 1901. He brought the device to the US, modernized it, and popularized it within the medical community. We definitely think it’s time to move past the traditional cuff!

# 2. The normal blood pressure range has changed. 

In 2017, The American Heart Association and American College of Cardiology redefined blood pressure guidelines, changing stage 1 levels from 140/90 to 130/80 mm Hg. At the time, the update meant that 30 million, or 14%, more American Adults officially had high blood pressure. 

# 3. Most people with high blood pressure do not know they have it. 

The biggest problem with hypertension – aka “the silent killer” – is there are no outward symptoms, making it difficult and inconvenient to regularly measure and thus preventing proper management. Of the 1.13 billion people worldwide who have hypertension, only half have it under control. 

# 4. Young people and pregnant women can have hypertension, too. 

While high blood pressure is very common in older people due to aging vascular systems, they are not the only age group at risk. Nearly 1 in 4 adults aged 20 to 44 in the US have high blood pressure, and according to CDC, high blood pressure happens in 1 in every 12 to 17 pregnancies among women ages 20 to 44.

# 5. Hypertension contributes to more than 1000 deaths per day. 

In the US, high blood pressure was a primary or contributing cause of death for more than 494,873 people in 2018. Having hypertension puts you at risk for heart disease and stroke, which are leading causes of death in the United States.

While there is no way to prevent primary hypertension, it can be controlled through a healthy lifestyle and medication if necessary, as advised by your doctor. Checking your blood pressure regularly is the only way to know for sure whether it is too high. 

The World Health Organization estimates that 1.13Bn people worldwide have hypertension. Dubbed the “silent killer,” only one in five people afflicted with hypertension has control over their condition. 

#6: Salt is the Only Thing That Affects Your Blood Pressure

#7: Only Overweight or Obese People Develop Hypertension

#8: Hypertension is a Men’s Health Issue

#9: You Can’t Prevent Hypertension

#10: Once You Have Hypertension, You’ll Need Medication for Life

#11: Exercise Makes Hypertension Worse

#12: Hypertension is Just a Temporary Condition

#13: There’s Only One Way to Lower Your Blood Pressure

If you or someone you know has hypertension, it’s important to separate fact from fiction. By understanding the truth behind these hypertension myths, you can take control of your health and work towards preventing or managing this condition

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2 thoughts on “Unmasking 10 Hypertension Stages & Myths: The Shocking Truth”

  1. Understanding the stages of hypertension is crucial for effective management. From prehypertension to stage 3, each stage requires different treatment approaches. This post provides valuable information on lifestyle changes, medication options, and regular check-ups. Thanks for sharing these essential tips!

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