Blood pressure is a vital indicator of our cardiovascular health. When we talk about high diastolic pressure, we are referring to the pressure that blood exerts on the arteries when the heart is at rest between beats. An elevated diastolic reading can be a sign that the heart and blood vessels are under constant pressure, which could increase the risk of heart disease and other health problems.
What does it mean to have high diastolic pressure?
Blood pressure is composed of two numbers: systolic (the upper number) and diastolic (the lower number). High diastolic pressure is considered when the latter exceeds 80 mmHg. Particularly, a reading of 90 mmHg or higher is classified as diastolic hypertension. This condition can occur in isolation, i.e., with normal systolic pressure, and is known as isolated diastolic hypertension. Although less common, this form of hypertension can be just as dangerous if not properly controlled.
Common causes of high diastolic blood pressure
High diastolic blood pressure does not appear out of nowhere. Unhealthy lifestyle habits, medical conditions or a combination of both are often behind this elevated value. One of the most common causes is excess weight. When the body accumulates fat, especially in the abdominal area, there is increased resistance in the blood vessels, which forces the heart to work harder, raising the pressure.
Another frequent cause is a sedentary lifestyle. Lack of physical activity weakens the cardiovascular system, reduces the elasticity of the arteries and facilitates the accumulation of plaques in the blood vessels. This is compounded by an inadequate diet, especially one rich in sodium, saturated fats and sugars. Excessive salt consumption causes fluid retention and an increase in blood volume, which increases the pressure inside the arteries.
Smoking and alcohol also play a role. Smoking damages the walls of blood vessels and impairs circulation, while alcohol consumption, especially in excess, can raise blood pressure in the short and long term. Chronic stress is another important factor: living with a constant level of emotional tension can cause a continuous release of hormones such as cortisol and adrenaline, which raise blood pressure in a sustained manner.
In addition, age influences the alteration of blood pressure and there are also medical causes that can generate an elevated diastolic blood pressure. These include kidney disease, hormonal problems such as hyperthyroidism, or even side effects of certain medications. Therefore, if high values are maintained over time, it is advisable to have a medical evaluation to rule out that there is something else behind it.
Risks associated with high diastolic blood pressure
Although many people are more concerned about systolic pressure (the top number), the truth is that a high diastolic also represents a major health risk. When diastolic pressure is consistently above 90 mmHg, the arteries remain under excessive pressure, even at times when the heart should be resting. This prolonged strain can cause silent but cumulative damage to several organs.
One of the main risks is the development of cardiovascular disease. The heart, having to pump blood against greater resistance, can thicken its walls, a condition known as left ventricular hypertrophy, which over time reduces the efficiency of the organ and can lead to heart failure.
In addition, the constant increase in pressure can cause damage to the blood vessels of the brain, increasing the risk of cerebrovascular accidents (stroke). There are also consequences at the renal level: the kidneys, which are very sensitive to pressure, can lose filtering capacity, which over time can lead to chronic renal failure.
Another aspect that is often overlooked is vision impairment. The blood vessels in the eyes also suffer with hypertension, and if not treated in time, hypertensive retinopathy can develop, a condition that can progressively affect vision.
When to consult a specialist?
It is essential to pay attention to your blood pressure readings. If you notice that your diastolic pressure remains at 90 mmHg or higher, it is advisable to see a healthcare professional. In addition, if you experience symptoms such as frequent headaches, dizziness, blurred vision or shortness of breath, it is essential to seek medical attention.
Prevention and management of high diastolic blood pressure
On the positive side, in most cases, high diastolic blood pressure can be controlled or prevented . diastolic blood pressure can be controlled or prevented with lifestyle changes. The first step is to review your diet. A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes and healthy fats such as olive oil or avocado can make a big difference. It is important to reduce salt intake to the minimum possible, as sodium is one of the main causes of elevated blood pressure.
In addition to nutrition, the body needs movement. Regular exercise, at least 30 minutes a day, helps keep blood vessels flexible, improve circulation and reduce stress. Activities such as walking, swimming, cycling or dancing are perfect choices for all ages.
Maintaining a healthy weight is also key. Being overweight puts more pressure on the circulatory system, so losing even a few kilos can have a very positive impact on blood pressure figures. Along the same lines, it is important to stop smoking and limit alcohol consumption. Both habits not only increase blood pressure, but deteriorate overall cardiovascular health.
And of course, stress management should not be forgotten. We live in a fast-paced environment, and learning to relax is more crucial than ever. Techniques such as meditation, conscious breathing, yoga or simply taking moments of calm throughout the day can help reduce tension naturally.
In some cases, lifestyle changes are not enough and the doctor may recommend pharmacological treatment. In this case, it is essential to follow the indications to the letter, not to self-medicate and to attend regular check-ups. Because when it comes to blood pressure, the most important thing is to act in time, listen to the body and maintain good habits constantly.