Classification and Criteria for Hypertension Severity

Common Medications for Hypertension

Modern lifestyles—characterized by excessive work and life stress, as well as poor daily routines—predispose individuals to numerous endocrine disorders, among which hypertension is particularly common. So, how is hypertension classified, and what are the diagnostic criteria?

Classification and Diagnostic Criteria for Hypertension

Hypertension is categorized into three grades based on systolic and diastolic blood pressure readings:

• Systolic blood pressure (SBP):
  – Grade 1: 140–159 mmHg
  – Grade 2: 160–179 mmHg
  – Grade 3: ≥180 mmHg
• Diastolic blood pressure (DBP):
  – Grade 1: 90–99 mmHg
  – Grade 2: 100–109 mmHg
  – Grade 3: ≥110 mmHg

Note: Even if blood pressure values fall just below these thresholds, they should still be considered indicative of hypertension and warrant close monitoring. For unstable readings, it is recommended to measure blood pressure continuously over three days and calculate the average value.

Markedly elevated blood pressure can trigger a range of serious complications, including cardiovascular, cerebrovascular, and renal diseases. Patients with hypertension must follow their physician’s guidance and use antihypertensive medications appropriately. It is important to understand that blood pressure does not typically drop immediately after initiating antihypertensive therapy; rather, it gradually declines over a period of 2–4 weeks. Patients may engage in moderate physical activity, but strenuous exercise should be avoided during extremely cold weather.

Patients are advised to consume appropriate amounts of sugar and saline solutions, avoid adverse psychological stressors, ensure adequate sleep, and initiate prescribed medication promptly. We hope this information proves helpful.