The American College of Cardiology and the American Heart Association have defined three new categories of hypertension:
- Elevated blood pressure: 120-129 mm Hg systolic, <80 mm Hg diastolic
- Stage 1 hypertension: 130-139 mm Hg systolic or 80-89 mm Hg diastolic
- Stage 2 hypertension: >140 mm Hg systolic or >90 mm Hg diastolic
Lifestyle modifications are recommended for all groups, in addition to appropriate medication for Stage 1 and 2 hypertension.
LifeTip: Maintaining a normal weight, physical exercise, and a healthy, balanced diet go a long way to preventing hypertension. Watch “Lower Hypertension Naturally” with Dr. David DeRose for more recommendations.
Adapted from PositiveChoices.com
