How dangerous is a blood pressure of 155 over 110?
A blood pressure reading of 155 over 110 mmHg is considered hypertension stage 2, according to the guidelines set by the American Heart Association (AHA) and other medical organizations. This level of blood pressure is significantly above the normal range and presents serious health risks if left untreated.
Understanding Blood Pressure Readings
Blood pressure consists of two numbers:
- Systolic pressure (155 mmHg) – This is the pressure in the arteries when the heart contracts and pumps blood.
- Diastolic pressure (110 mmHg) – This is the pressure in the arteries when the heart relaxes between beats.
A normal blood pressure reading is below 120/80 mmHg. When blood pressure rises above 140/90 mmHg, it is classified as hypertension, with different severity levels.
How Dangerous Is 155/110?
A blood pressure of 155/110 is considered severe hypertension and requires immediate medical attention. Here’s why it is dangerous:
1. Increased Risk of Stroke
High blood pressure is one of the leading causes of stroke. A reading of 155/110 mmHg significantly increases the risk of both ischemic stroke (caused by a blockage) and hemorrhagic stroke (caused by a ruptured blood vessel). The high pressure weakens arteries over time, making them prone to rupture or blockages.
2. Damage to the Heart
Hypertension forces the heart to work harder than normal to pump blood. Over time, this can lead to:
- Left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH): Thickening of the heart muscle, which can lead to heart failure.
- Coronary artery disease: Increased pressure damages arteries, increasing the risk of heart attacks.
- Arrhythmias: Irregular heartbeats that can cause sudden cardiac arrest.
3. Kidney Damage
The kidneys filter waste from the blood, but high blood pressure can damage the tiny blood vessels (glomeruli) in the kidneys. This may lead to:
- Chronic kidney disease (CKD)
- Kidney failure, requiring dialysis or transplant
4. Risk of Aneurysms
Consistently high blood pressure weakens the walls of blood vessels, leading to aneurysms (bulges in the arteries). If an aneurysm bursts, it can cause life-threatening internal bleeding.
5. Eye Damage (Hypertensive Retinopathy)
High blood pressure can damage the retina, leading to vision problems or even blindness. This condition is known as hypertensive retinopathy.
6. Cognitive Decline and Dementia
Chronic high blood pressure reduces blood flow to the brain, increasing the risk of:
- Vascular dementia
- Alzheimer’s disease
- Cognitive decline
Immediate Actions to Take
- Seek medical attention: A reading of 155/110 mmHg is not a minor concern. Visit a doctor immediately.
- Lifestyle changes:
- Reduce salt intake (sodium increases blood pressure).
- Exercise regularly (at least 30 minutes a day).
- Lose weight if overweight.
- Manage stress (meditation, yoga, deep breathing).
- Avoid alcohol and smoking.
- Medication: Many people require antihypertensive drugs to control severe hypertension.
Conclusion
A blood pressure of 155 over 110 mmHg is dangerous and poses a serious risk of heart disease, stroke, kidney failure, and other complications. Immediate medical attention and lifestyle changes are crucial to prevent life-threatening consequences.
