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blood pressure range for women
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Cardiac & Vascular Health
Question #14361
3 days ago
24

blood pressure range for women - #14361

Aditya

I am really concerned about my health lately, especially my blood pressure. I’m a 35-year-old woman, and like most, I’m trying to juggle work, kids, and everything else. Lately, I've been feeling a bit dizzy and lightheaded. Went to the doctor, and they told me my blood pressure was 148/90 during the appointment. At first, I thought it could’ve just been the stress from rushing to get there...but now I'm wondering about what the normal blood pressure range for women really is! I did some reading and some places say 120/80 is the "normal" range, which makes me feel like I'm way off. Like, do I need to seriously freak out here? I’ve been thinking about the blood pressure range for women a lot since then! It’s frustrating because I exercise a few times a week and try to eat healthy—mostly! My sister had issues with her blood pressure before, but she was older than me, and I always thought those problems wouldn’t hit me until I was older. What is the actual blood pressure range for women though? I really need some clarity on this, does age play a big role or is it more about lifestyle? I feel like I'm lost and want to figure this out before it becomes a bigger issue. Anyone else been through something similar, and how do I get my blood pressure back to normal?

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Doctors’ responses

You’re right in noting that the commonly accepted “normal” blood pressure range for adults, including women, is indeed around 120/80 mmHg. However, if your reading was at 148/90 mmHg, particularly at a single appointment where you may have been stressed or rushed, it warrants attention but not necessarily panic. Blood pressure can fluctuate for various reasons, including stress, caffeine consumption, anxiety during a doctor’s visit (known as white coat syndrome), and even the time of day. The goal is to look at your overall pattern rather than a one-time measurement. For context, readings consistently above 140/90 mmHg are classified as hypertension, which can increase the risk of cardiovascular issues over time. In terms of age and gender: while women do experience changes in blood pressure with age, lifestyle factors like diet, exercize, stress management, and genetics play significant roles too. It might be helpful to monitor your blood pressure at home over a period of days or weeks to get a more accurate picture of your usual levels. Home monitors can be very useful, but ensure you use a well-calibrated device and follow the instructions for proper measurement - avoid caffeine, nicotine, and take a few minutes to sit quietly beforehand. To manage blood pressure, continue engaging in regular physical activity and maintaining a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein. Limiting sodium intake and moderating alcohol consumption can also make a significant difference. Stress reduction techniques, like yoga, deep breathing exercises, or even adequate sleep, could be beneficial. If readings remain high, follow up with your healthcare provider. They might consider further investigations or discuss treatment options depending on your overall risk factors. The important part is addressing it now, while it’s manageable, to help prevent complications down the road.

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