What should normal blood pressure be? New guidelines explain the full range

Blood pressure has become a rapidly growing health problem today. Cases of high blood pressure are increasing more rapidly among younger generations than among older adults. 

This is due to persistent stress, poor sleep, junk food, lack of physical activity, and increased screen time. In light of the increasing cases, the AHA (American Heart Association) and ACC (American College of Cardiology) have released new guidelines. While these are largely similar to previous guidelines, there are some changes.

In these guidelines, new blood pressure categories, risk indicators, and treatment methods have been clarified more clearly than before. 

Let's explore the changes in these new guidelines and how to understand them. First, let's understand the new blood pressure categories.

What are the new categories of BP?

Previously, the normal range for blood pressure was generally 120/80 mmHg, and this was considered completely normal. Slight variations in this range were often overlooked. 

However, with the release of new guidelines from the AHA and ACC, the blood pressure range has been further clarified so that high blood pressure can be identified early. Now, readings below 120/80 mmHg are considered normal, but readings above this range are categorized.

For example, 120-129 is considered elevated blood pressure (an early warning sign of high blood pressure), 130-139 is considered Stage 1 hypertension (the first stage of high blood pressure), and anything above 140/90 mmHg is considered Stage 2 hypertension (severe high blood pressure). 

The new range has the advantage that people can recognize the signs of high blood pressure early and initiate treatment and lifestyle changes.

What are the 10 new guidelines for blood pressure?

1. Normal BP now below 120/80 mmHg

The new guidelines state that a range below 120/80 mmHg is considered completely healthy and safe. Any BP increase even slightly above this is no longer ignored. 

The aim of the new guidelines is to detect changes early, reducing the risk of developing high blood pressure in the future.

2. 120-129 is called elevated BP

This is a warning sign of the onset of high blood pressure. Medication isn't necessary at this stage; habits like salt reduction, weight control, and daily walking are essential. If ignored, blood pressure can rise further.

3. 130-139 is Stage 1 Hypertension

At this level, blood pressure has already increased and requires attention. Doctors recommend lifestyle changes first. If the patient has a high risk of heart disease, medication may also be initiated. This stage increases the strain on the heart and kidneys.

4. Stage 2 Hypertension above 140/90 mmHg

This is a serious stage of high blood pressure and requires immediate treatment. It requires medication and strict monitoring. If left uncontrolled, it increases the risk of heart attack and stroke. Daily blood pressure monitoring becomes crucial.

5. Medications will be started early

The new guidelines state that medication should be started as soon as risk factors are identified, rather than waiting as in the old guidelines. This could prevent serious complications early, especially in those at high risk for heart disease.

6. Lifestyle changes are necessary

Exercise, weight control, and salt reduction are the most important steps recommended. These changes are considered as effective as medication. A 30-minute walk or yoga session daily is recommended, along with a reduction in packaged and processed foods.

7. Home BP monitoring is essential

Relying solely on clinic BP is no longer considered advisable. Having a home BP machine and regularly monitoring it is essential. This provides accurate readings and effective treatment. Many people are also able to avoid the white coat effect.

8. It is important to reduce salt

Excess salt increases blood pressure immediately and sharply. New guidelines recommend limiting salt in daily diets. It is important to avoid packaged snacks, pickles, chips, and processed foods. Fresh and light meals help maintain stable blood pressure.

9. Stress management is part of treatment

Stress is considered a major cause of high blood pressure. The new guidelines emphasize the importance of improving sleep, meditation, and deep breathing. Reducing stress can automatically lower blood pressure. Maintaining a stable mood also reduces pressure on the heart.

10. BP standards tightened for high-risk patients

Those at higher risk for heart disease, diabetes, or kidney disease need to maintain even lower blood pressure than others to reduce the risk of heart attack, stroke, and kidney damage. These patients require more stringent monitoring and treatment.

What do experts say?

Dr. Ajit Jain, of the Cardiology Department at Rajiv Gandhi Hospital, explains that the new guidelines will identify high blood pressure cases earlier and significantly reduce the risk of heart disease, kidney disease, and stroke. Now, it's crucial to make lifestyle changes not just for very high blood pressure, but even for slight increases.

Stress and poor lifestyle are becoming the biggest causes of high blood pressure in young people. Therefore, regular monitoring, a healthy diet, and physical activity are crucial. The objective of the new guidelines is clear: the earlier the diagnosis, the better the control.

This is also necessary to control BP

1. Do brisk walk or yoga for 30 minutes every day.
2. Reduce salt and packed food.
3. Make sure to sleep for 7 to 8 hours.
4. Avoid caffeine and smoking.
5. Drink adequate amount of water.
6. Do meditation to reduce stress.