Source: Shutterstock

High Blood Pressure: How High is Too High?

Last updated: 3 Sep 2018 | 1 min reading time

Dr Chew Chun Yang, family physician at Parkway Shenton, weighs in on what is considered a 'normal' blood pressure reading today.

A leading cause of death in Singapore

Hypertension, also known as high blood pressure, is a common medical condition in Singapore. According to Ministry of Health Singapore, 1 in 5 adults aged 18 – 69 years have high blood pressure. It is also one of the top 10 principal causes of death.

What exactly is blood pressure?

When the blood is pumped around the body at abnormally high pressure, it is called high blood pressure. Blood pressure is usually recorded as 2 numbers, namely the systolic (the upper number) and diastolic blood pressure (the lower number). Systolic blood pressure refers to the pressure your blood is exerting against the artery wall when the heart contracts, while diastolic blood pressure indicates the pressure your blood is exerting against the artery wall when the heart relaxes.

When should I see a doctor?

Blood pressure that stays persistently 140/90 mmHg and above is considered high, and the person is said to have high blood pressure or hypertension. If you encounter this condition, it is best to consult a doctor to check on your health.

Article tags

Getting medical care

Evolving Treatments for Pancreatic Neuroendocrine Cancer (PNETs)

Dr Liau Kui Hin explains pancreatic neuroendocrine tumours (PNETs) and the newer, effective treatments for this uncommon cancer.

Treatments

How to Heal Your Thyroid

Dr Dennis Chua talks about the thyroid and the common conditions associated with it.

Conditions

10 Secrets You Need to Stop Hiding from Your Doctor

When it comes to discussing more personal issues with doctors, it's tempting to hide certain details. Yet, by doing so, you may be putting your health at risk.

Lifestyle

How to Recognise Kidney Failure: Symptoms, Causes & Treatment

Dr Akira Wu, renal physician at Mount Elizabeth Hospital, explains what kidney failure is, what causes it and what symptoms to look out for.

Conditions

4 Types of Aches and Pains Not to Ignore

If you tripped on a pavement or pulled something during a workout, you might be tempted to brush it off as a mild injury. Here's why you shouldn't ignore that ache and what you should do instead.

Conditions