Blood pressure is a vital indicator of cardiovascular health, and its control is essential to prevent complications at all stages of life. In older people, blood pressure can fluctuate due to various factors, such as aging of the blood vessels and changes in cardiac function.
At older ages, blood pressure tends to rise, increasing the risk of cardiovascular disease and other complications. Therefore, it is essential to regularly monitor blood pressure and take steps to control it within healthy ranges. In addition, it is important to note that women and men may experience differences in blood pressure due to unique hormonal and physiological factors.
and its control is essential to prevent complications at all stages of life. In older people, blood pressure can fluctuate due to various factors, such as aging of the blood vessels and changes in cardiac function.
At older ages, blood pressure tends to rise, increasing the risk of cardiovascular disease and other complications. Therefore, it is essential to regularly monitor blood pressure and take steps to control it within healthy ranges. In addition, it is important to note that women and men may experience differences in blood pressure due to unique hormonal and physiological factors.
What is blood pressure?
Blood pressure, also known as arterial pressure, is the force exerted by the blood against the walls of the arteries as the heart pumps blood throughout the body. It is measured in millimeters of mercury(mmHg) and is expressed by two numbers: systolic pressure and diastolic pressure.
- Systolic pressure: This is the first number in a blood pressure reading and represents the pressure in the arteries when the heart contracts and pumps blood to the body.
- Diastolic pressure: This is the second number and shows the pressure in the arteries when the heart relaxes between beats.
There are several types of blood pressure:
- Normal blood pressure: It is considered normal when the systolic pressure is below 120 mmHg and the diastolic pressure is below 80 mmHg (120/80 mmHg).
- High blood pressure: Also known as prehypertension, it is characterized by a systolic pressure between 120-139 mmHg or a diastolic pressure between 80-89 mmHg.
- Arterial hypertension: occurs when blood pressure is consistently high, with a systolic pressure of 140 mmHg or more and/or a diastolic pressure of 90 mmHg or more.
- Arterial hypotension: This is when blood pressure is abnormally low, which may cause dizziness, fainting or fatigue. It is defined as a systolic blood pressure lower than 90 mmHg and a diastolic pressure lower than 60 mmHg.
What are normal blood pressure values in the elderly?
In older people, normal blood pressure values may vary slightly compared to younger adults. Generally, a normal blood pressure in older people is considered to be around 120/80 mmHg. However, due to the natural aging process and possible chronic diseases, these values may vary.
In the elderly, it is common that systolic blood pressure tends to increase, while diastolic pressure may remain relatively stable or even decrease. Therefore, it is important to consider both systolic and diastolic pressures when assessing the cardiovascular health of an elderly person.
It is essential that older people have their blood pressure checked regularly to detect any significant variations that may indicate underlying health problems, such as high blood pressure, heart disease or other conditions.
Symptoms of high and low blood pressure
Arterial hypertension, or high blood pressure, is often called "the silent killer" because it may not present obvious symptoms in its early stages. However, as blood pressure rises, symptoms such as headaches, especially in the back of the head and the base of the skull, may appear. Blurred vision, dizziness, ringing in the ears, fatigue, shortness of breath and heart palpitations may also be experienced.
On the other hand, hypotension, or low blood pressure, can manifest with symptoms such as dizziness or fainting when standing up quickly, especially after sitting or lying down for a prolonged period of time. Weakness, fatigue, blurred vision, confusion, difficulty concentrating, pale skin, and in extreme cases, cold sweats, shallow breathing and fainting may also be experienced.
Tips for maintaining good blood pressure levels in the elderly
Maintaining healthy blood pressure is crucial for cardiovascular health in older people. Here are some tips to help keep it at good levels:
- Maintaining a healthy weight: Overweight and obesity can increase the risk of hypertension in older people. Adopting a balanced diet and regular physical activity can help maintain a healthy weight and control blood pressure.
- Reduce sodium intake: Too much sodium in the diet can raise blood pressure. Limiting intake of processed, canned and salty foods, as well as cooking with less salt and using herbs and spices for seasoning can help keep blood pressure at optimal levels.
- Eat a diet rich in fruits, vegetables and whole grain foods: Foods rich in potassium, calcium and magnesium can help regulate blood pressure. Including fruits, vegetables, whole grains, low-fat dairy and fish in the diet can be beneficial in maintaining cardiovascular health in older people.
- Limit alcohol and caffeine intake: Excessive alcohol and caffeine intake can increase blood pressure. Limiting intake of these substances can help keep blood pressure at healthy levels.
- Manage stress: Chronic stress can contribute to hypertension. Practicing relaxation techniques such as meditation, yoga or deep breathing can help reduce stress and keep blood pressure under control in older people.
In conclusion, maintaining healthy blood pressure in older people is essential to prevent cardiovascular disease and promote active and healthy aging. Adopting a healthy lifestyle that includes a balanced diet, regular exercise, weight control, and stress management can help maintain blood pressure at optimal levels.
In addition, it is crucial to have support tools such as the advanced telecare of SICOR teleasistencia El Corte Inglés, which offers monitoring services and personalized attention to ensure the safety and well-being of the elderly at all times.