What it means
The plain-language term for hypertensionhy-per-TEN-shunBlood pressure that stays higher than normal, at or above 130/80 mm Hg by current US guidelines.hyper- above, more than normaltension pressureFull entry . In the United States, a blood pressure below 120/80 mm Hg is normal; 130 to 139 systolic or 80 to 89 diastolic is stage 1 hypertension; 140/90 or higher is stage 2. It usually has no symptoms, which is why it is called a silent killer, yet over time it damages the heart, brain, kidneys and eyes. Clients are more likely to use this phrase than the medical word.
For the nurse
Use the client's words when teaching: "high blood pressure" rather than "hypertension". Teach home blood pressure checks, taking medicines every day even when feeling well, less salt, activity and limiting alcohol.
At a glance
| Everyday words | high blood pressure |
|---|---|
| Spanish | presión arterial alta |
| Also written | high-blood-pressure |
Related terms
hypertension
Blood pressure that stays higher than normal, at or above 130/80 mm Hg by current US guidelines.
blood pressure
The force of blood pushing against the walls of the arteries, written as systolic over diastolic in mm Hg.
diuretic
A drug that makes the kidneys pass more water and salt out of the body as urine.
calcium channel blocker
A drug that slows the movement of calcium into heart and blood vessel muscle cells, relaxing the vessels.