How are the stages of hypertension classified?
Dec 04, 2022
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Tian Hongbo
Introduction
Hypertension can be classified into grade 1, grade 2, and grade 3. Grade 1 hypertension refers to systolic blood pressure of 140–159 mmHg and diastolic blood pressure of 90–99 mmHg. Grade 2 hypertension refers to systolic blood pressure ≥160 mmHg and diastolic blood pressure ≥100 mmHg. Grade 3 hypertension refers to systolic blood pressure of 160–179 mmHg and diastolic blood pressure of 100–109 mmHg.
Hypertension can be classified into three levels—Stage 1, Stage 2, and Stage 3—based on severity.
Hypertension is a clinical syndrome characterized primarily by elevated systemic arterial pressure, often accompanied by varying degrees of increased cardiac output and blood volume. Patients may experience symptoms such as dizziness, headache, tinnitus, and fatigue. Long-term hypertension can damage other organs and lead to various cardiovascular diseases, ultimately resulting in serious complications such as heart failure and stroke. Stage 1 hypertension is defined as systolic blood pressure of 140–159 mmHg and/or diastolic blood pressure of 90–99 mmHg; Stage 2 hypertension refers to systolic blood pressure ≥160 mmHg and/or diastolic blood pressure ≥100 mmHg; and Stage 3 hypertension refers to systolic blood pressure of 160–179 mmHg and/or diastolic blood pressure of 100–109 mmHg. Higher blood pressure values indicate more severe disease: Stage 1 represents mild hypertension, Stage 2 moderate hypertension, and Stage 3 severe hypertension.
Therefore, once diagnosed with hypertension, patients should, under medical guidance, use antihypertensive medications to control the condition, such as commonly prescribed metoprolol tartrate tablets or nifedipine sustained-release capsules. For hypertension caused by organic lesions, surgical intervention may be necessary in some cases. In daily life, hypertensive patients should correct unhealthy lifestyle habits, maintain regular作息 (daily routines), engage in appropriate physical exercise, and consume more vegetables and fruits, all of which can help alleviate symptoms of hypertension.
