Stage 2 hypertension, or high blood pressure, is a very serious health condition. It occurs when the systolic blood pressure reading is higher than 140 mmHg or the diastolic blood pressure reading is higher than 90 mmHg. This level of high blood pressure can significantly increase a person’s risk of developing a wide range of health problems, including heart attack, stroke, kidney disease, and vision loss.
Stage 2 hypertension is associated with a greater risk of cardiovascular events including heart attack and stroke. In people with high blood pressure, the risk of developing these conditions is twice as high as in those with normal blood pressure. People with Stage 2 hypertension are also at increased risk of developing kidney disease, coronary artery disease, and aneurysms. In addition, people with high blood pressure are more likely to suffer from complications of diabetes, such as eye, kidney, and nerve damage.
Stage 2 hypertension can also increase a person’s risk of developing cognitive decline and dementia. High blood pressure can damage the small vessels in the brain, leading to changes in the brain’s structure and function. This can cause memory problems, confusion, and difficulty carrying out everyday tasks.
The good news is that Stage 2 hypertension can be managed and even reversed with lifestyle changes and medication. The most important step is to make changes to reduce your blood pressure, such as exercising regularly, eating a healthy diet, reducing stress, and quitting smoking. If lifestyle changes are not enough, medication may be prescribed to help bring your blood pressure down to a normal level.
Overall, Stage 2 hypertension is a serious health condition and managing it is essential to reduce the risk of serious health complications. It is important to work with your doctor to develop a treatment plan that is right for you.
