Is 140/80 mmHg considered high blood pressure for young people?
Apr 16, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Tian Hongbo
Introduction
If a young person has an average blood pressure of 140/80 mmHg measured at different times over three days, and lifestyle modifications fail to bring the blood pressure back to normal levels, it is generally considered hypertension. However, if the blood pressure reading of 140/80 mmHg occurs only once after emotional excitement or intense physical activity, it is generally not classified as hypertension and may instead result from increased sympathetic nervous system activity.
Whether a blood pressure reading of 140/80 mmHg in a young person is considered hypertension generally depends on the condition and frequency of measurement. The specific analysis is as follows:
1. Considered hypertension
If a young person has a blood pressure reading of 140/80 mmHg that represents the average value measured at different times over three days, and their blood pressure cannot be normalized despite actively adjusting lifestyle habits, it is generally considered to be hypertension.
2. Not considered hypertension
If the reading of 140/80 mmHg comes from a single measurement taken immediately after emotional excitement or intense physical activity, it is generally not considered hypertension. This may result from temporary factors increasing sympathetic nervous system activity, and blood pressure usually returns to normal with adequate rest.
For individuals diagnosed with hypertension, maintaining a diet low in salt, fat, and cholesterol, along with actively quitting smoking and alcohol consumption, and appropriately managing body weight, typically helps control blood pressure within the normal range.
