Blood pressure is one of those health values that we have all heard mentioned, but that we don't always fully understand. Many times, when they measure our blood pressure and tell us that it is 13/8, we do not know if it is a good sign, if we are at the limit or if we should be worried. Is it the same for a man or a woman? Does it depend on age? What are the implications of having that value on a regular basis?
Is a voltage of 13/8 normal?
A blood pressure reading of 13/8, which is equivalent to 130/80 mmHg, is at the upper limit of what is considered normal. This value is classified as "high-normal" or "prehypertension," meaning that although it is not considered hypertension, it is close to the threshold and requires attention.
It is important to note that blood pressure can vary throughout the day and by factors such as stress, physical activity and diet. Therefore, a single reading of 13/8 does not necessarily indicate a problem, but if it remains consistently in this range, it is advisable to take preventive measures.
Differences between men and women
Blood pressure can vary between men and women due to differences in hormones, body composition and other factors such as age. In general, women tend to have slightly lower blood pressures than men. However, after menopause, women may experience an increase in blood pressure.
For men, a reading of 13/8 may be more common, especially with age. However, in both sexes, keeping blood pressure within normal ranges is crucial to prevent cardiovascular disease.
When to worry about a strain of 13/8?
Although a reading of 13/8 is not considered hypertension, it is a warning sign. If it remains in this range consistently, it may increase the risk of developing hypertension in the future. It is especially important to pay attention if you have other risk factors, such as a family history of hypertension, obesity or a sedentary lifestyle.
In addition, if symptoms such as frequent headaches, dizziness or blurred vision are experienced, it is advisable to consult a health professional.
Recommendations for maintaining healthy blood pressure
If your blood pressure is around 13/8, it is a good time to start taking care of certain habits before they can lead to a more serious problem such as hypertension. It is not a matter of alarm, but of prevention with common sense and perseverance. The good news is that there are many things you can do in your day-to-day life to keep your blood pressure in healthy ranges, without the need for medication, especially if you have not yet been diagnosed with hypertension.
One of the fundamental pillars is to have a balanced diet. Reducing salt consumption is key, since sodium favors fluid retention and raises blood pressure. Also avoid ultra-processed foods, which usually hide large amounts of salt, saturated fats and sugars. Opt for fruits, fresh vegetables, legumes, oily fish, unsalted nuts and whole grains. In addition, increasing your potassium intake (found in foods such as bananas, avocados and spinach) can help counteract the effects of sodium in the body.
The second great ally is regular physical exercise. You don't need to spend hours in the gym: it's enough to walk briskly for 30 minutes a day, ride a bike, swim or even dance. The important thing is to move, and to do it often. Exercise helps your heart work more efficiently and helps keep your blood vessels in good condition, which promotes stable blood pressure.
It is also important to maintain an adequate body weight. If you are overweight or obese, your heart needs to work harder to pump blood, which has a direct impact on your blood pressure. Losing even a few pounds can make a big difference in your blood pressure numbers.
Another aspect that should not be forgotten is the consumption of alcohol and tobacco. Excessive alcohol can raise blood pressure, and tobacco, in addition to its immediate vasoconstrictive effect, damages the walls of the arteries in the long term. If you smoke or drink regularly, reducing or eliminating these habits is one of the most effective ways to take care of your cardiovascular health.
Finally, don't underestimate the impact of chronic stress. Constantly living under emotional pressure can alter your hormone levels and, with it, persistently increase your blood pressure. Spending time on activities that relax you, such as meditation, reading, yoga or simply disconnecting from your cell phone and taking a walk in the fresh air, can help you more than you might think.
A blood pressure of 13/8 is at the upper limit of normal and may be a warning sign for future hypertension problems. It is essential to regularly monitor your blood pressure and adopt a healthy lifestyle to keep it at optimal levels. If you have questions or concerns, do not hesitate to consult a healthcare professional.