My blood pressure is only 157/99. Do i really have hypertension?

Normal blood pressure is usually considered to be between: 

90/60   ==> read as **90 over 60** 

                       and 

120/80 ==> read as **120 over 80**

High blood pressure (also known as "hypertension") is a blood pressure that is 140/90 or higher.

High blood pressure (hypertension) happens when the force on the walls of blood vessels (caused by the blood within them) is more than normal. 

The systolic pressure (higher number) is the force at which the heart pumps blood around the body.

The diastolic pressure (lower number) is a measure of the pressure inside the arteries when the heart is resting between heartbeats.

Everyone's blood pressure will be slightly different. What's considered low or high for you may be normal for someone else. 

High blood pressure (hypertension) makes the heart works harder and put more strain on your blood vessels and other organs, such as the brain, kidneys and eyes. Thereby increasing your risk of serious problems such as heart attacks, strokes, heart failure, aortic aneurysm, peripheral artery disease, vision loss, kidney disease, vascular dementia, erectile dysfunction in men and may contribute to lower libido in women. 

Hypertension has no noticeable symptoms (asymptomatic). The only way to find out if your blood pressure is normal or high, is to have your blood pressure checked regularly.

Blood pressure usually changes throughout the day. It may be high for a short time if you are anxious, stressed, or have just been exercising.

One time blood pressure reading that is high does not mean that you have hypertension. An average of several readings (taken on different occasions, and when you are relaxed) is needed to diagnose high blood pressure (hypertension). 

What can I do to lower my blood pressure? 

Eat well balanced heart healthy DIET 

   - Fruits, vegetables, whole-grains

   - Low-fat dairy products

   - Skinless poultry and fish

   - Limit intake of salt, sugar, red meat, saturated and trans fat. 

Active lifestyle with EXERCISE 

    - Brisk walking, hiking or stair- climbing. 

    - Jogging, running, bicycling, rowing or swimming. 

When should I start taking medication? 

There are so many types of prescription blood pressure MEDICATIONS 

Talk to your medical provider to find which one or which combination will work better for you.