zuzu8

139/80 would not be considered hypertension.

Here's a good rule of thumb:

Normal: under 120/80 (no meds necessary. Lifestyle modifications should be encouraged.)

Pre-hypertension (new category): 120-139/80-89 (no meds necessary unless there are compelling indications such as diabetes or chronic kidney disease. Lifestyle modifications definitely recommended.)

Stage 1 hypertension: 140-159/90-99 (Drug treatment indicated plus definite lifestyle modifications.)

Stage 2 hypertension: at or over 160/100 (Drug treatment plus definite lifestyle modifications)

The new prehypertension category has thrown a lot of people for a loop.

It's important to realize that it does not mean one has hypertension if your #s fall into this range.

What is does mean however, is that those who fall into this range are at increased risk of developing hypertension in the future (almost twice the risk as those whose #s are lower.) So while no medication is necessary, it's important to adopt some lifestyle changes such as using less sodium, eating a lower fat diet in general, lose weight if you are overweight, exercise regularly, caffeine and alcohol in moderation....all things that can reduce one's future risk. There's not much one can do about one's GENES unfortunately, but might as well do everything else you can to stay healthy in general.

zuzu xx