A blood pressure reading of 155 mmHg, referring to the systolic pressure (the top number), is a significant elevation that warrants immediate attention. Blood pressure is measured as two numbers: systolic pressure, which reflects the force exerted on artery walls when the heart beats, and diastolic pressure, the pressure when the heart rests between beats. A reading of 155 is substantially higher than the ideal range of less than 120 mmHg systolic and less than 80 mmHg diastolic. This level of sustained pressure places the cardiovascular system under excessive strain, requiring medical evaluation and management. Understanding this reading is the first step toward reducing potential long-term health complications.
The Classification of 155 mmHg
A systolic blood pressure reading of 155 millimeters of mercury (mmHg) falls squarely into the category known as Stage 2 Hypertension, according to American Heart Association guidelines. This classification is defined by a systolic reading of 140 mmHg or higher, or a diastolic reading of 90 mmHg or higher. The 155 mmHg reading is well above the Stage 1 range, which is typically 130–139 mmHg systolic or 80–89 mmHg diastolic. Stage 2 Hypertension indicates that the blood pressure is high enough to typically require a combination of both lifestyle modifications and medication. A normal reading is less than 120/80 mmHg, while 120–129 mmHg systolic is considered “elevated.”
The Serious Health Risks of Sustained High Blood Pressure
Sustained high blood pressure damages the body’s vascular network, leading to serious health consequences over time. The constant, excessive force against arterial walls causes vessels to become less elastic and more rigid, a process called arteriosclerosis. This stiffening restricts blood flow and increases the risk of plaque buildup, which further narrows the arteries.
The heart is directly impacted because it must work harder against this increased resistance, potentially leading to thickening of the heart muscle and heart failure. Uncontrolled high pressure is a major risk factor for cardiovascular events, including heart attack and stroke. A stroke occurs when a blood vessel in the brain ruptures or becomes blocked, which is more likely under elevated pressure.
The kidneys rely on a dense network of blood vessels to filter waste. High blood pressure can damage these delicate vessels, impairing kidney function and potentially leading to chronic kidney disease or failure. The tiny blood vessels in the eyes can also be damaged, resulting in vision loss or hypertensive retinopathy.
Immediate Actions After Measuring 155 mmHg
A single high reading of 155 mmHg should first be confirmed through proper technique. To ensure accuracy, sit quietly for five minutes with your feet flat on the floor, avoiding caffeine, exercise, or smoking for 30 minutes prior to measurement. The cuff must be the correct size and placed directly on the skin; take two or three readings a minute apart, using the average as the most reliable number.
If the reading remains consistently high, contact a healthcare professional promptly to schedule an appointment. If the reading is 180/120 mmHg or higher, or if it is accompanied by severe symptoms like chest pain, shortness of breath, or sudden numbness, seek emergency medical attention. These symptoms indicate a hypertensive emergency requiring immediate treatment and diagnosis.
Long-Term Strategies for Blood Pressure Reduction
Managing a systolic blood pressure of 155 mmHg requires a dual approach that combines targeted lifestyle changes with medical intervention. Dietary modifications are foundational, with the Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) eating plan being highly recommended. This diet emphasizes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and low-fat dairy while significantly limiting saturated and total fats.
Reducing sodium intake is a particularly effective strategy, ideally limiting consumption to less than 1,500 milligrams per day. Regular aerobic exercise, such as brisk walking or swimming, for at least 30 minutes most days of the week can lower blood pressure by a measurable amount. Additionally, limiting alcohol consumption (one drink per day for women, two for men) and maintaining a healthy body weight are important contributors to pressure reduction.
For Stage 2 Hypertension, medication is often necessary alongside these adjustments to reach target blood pressure goals quickly and reduce complication risks. Common classes of antihypertensive drugs include Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme (ACE) inhibitors, Angiotensin II Receptor Blockers (ARBs), calcium channel blockers, and diuretics. Treatment is highly individualized, and a healthcare provider will determine the most appropriate single drug or combination therapy.