What Is Hypertension; Can Hypertension Be Controlled - ADC 6016 Instruction Manual

3.5. What is Hypertension?

Hypertension (high blood pressure) is elevated systolic or diastolic
levels. In 90 to 95 percent of the diagnosed cases, the specific causes are
unknown, although the condition is often linked with family history, and
lifestyle. This is referred to as essential hypertension. In the remaining
cases, high blood pressure is a symptom of an underlying, often treatable
condition, which if corrected, may normalize blood pressure. This less
common type is known as secondary hypertension. Hypertension, if left
untreated, may contribute to kidney disease, heart attack, stroke, or other
debilitating illnesses. The following standards for assessment of high
blood pressure in adults have been established by the Joint National Com-
mittee, 2003.
Range
Classifications
Normal
Prehypertension
––
Stage 1
(Moderate)
Stage 2
(Severe)
Remember only a physician is qualified to interpret the readings
obtained from your blood pressure monitor. No attempt should ever
be made at self-diagnosis or treatment.

3.6. Can Hypertension be Controlled?

lthough essential hypertension cannot be cured, it can usually be
controlled by altering lifestyle (including diet), adopting a program
of exercise, stress management and, where necessary, with medica-
tion under a doctor's supervision.
To help reduce the risk of hypertension, or keep it under control, the
merican Heart ssociation ( H ) recommends the following:
Systolic
Blood Pressure
<120
120 - 139
H Y P R T
140 - 159
160
(JNC-7 report: Joint National Committee on Prevention, Detection, Evaluation and Treatment of High Blood Pressure / 2003)
Diastolic
Blood Pressure
<80
80 - 99
N S I O N
90 - 99
100
Precaution
Measures
Monitor regularly
Contact your physician
––
Contact your
physician Immediately
Contact your
physician URGENTLY