Isolated systolic hypertension causes

The top reading is systolic pressure; it reflects the force of blood against artery walls as the heart pumps. The lower reading is diastolic pressure, measured while the heart relaxes. With age, arteries may become less flexible, so the top reading can rise more than the lower one. A single measurement cannot establish a pattern because stress, activity, caffeine, pain, and an incorrect cuff size can alter a reading.

Other contributors can include kidney disease, obesity, obstructive sleep apnoea, thyroid or other hormone problems, and medicines or substances that raise blood pressure. Long-standing high pressure can strain the heart and blood vessels, increasing the risk of conditions such as heart failure, stroke, and angina.

Arrange a clinical assessment if readings repeatedly show a high top number. A clinician may repeat measurements after rest, check both arms, review medicines and supplements, and assess kidney function and cardiovascular risk. Home readings can help when taken seated, after quiet rest, with the arm supported and a correctly sized cuff.

Treatment may involve gradual lifestyle changes and prescribed medicine chosen around your other health conditions. Do not stop a blood-pressure medicine or double a dose because of one reading. Limiting excess salt, staying active within your abilities, avoiding tobacco, moderating alcohol, and addressing poor sleep can support the plan.

Seek emergency help for a very high reading accompanied by chest pain, severe breathlessness, fainting, confusion, new weakness or numbness, trouble speaking, or sudden vision change. These symptoms can signal a stroke, heart problem, or another urgent condition. Without those symptoms, contact a healthcare professional promptly if readings remain markedly high, especially with pregnancy, kidney disease, or known heart disease.

Ask whether your readings represent isolated systolic hypertension, how to measure at home, whether another condition or medicine could be contributing, and what target is appropriate for you. Ask how soon your readings should be reviewed and what symptoms should prompt urgent help.