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A blood pressure of 160/90 is in the high blood pressure range, but decisions should not be made based on a single blood pressure reading. In order to officially diagnose high blood pressure, the blood pressure must be elevated on 2-3 separate occasions. I am not sure if this is a one time reading or if it is consistently this high. A blood pressure of 160/90 is elevated, but nothing to panic about. The concern over blood pressure is the development of complications over years (unless the blood pressure is dangerously high.)

First, it is important to make sure that your blood pressure was measured accurately, because inaccurate blood pressure cuff size and technique could falsely elevate your blood pressure. You should have your blood pressure checked at the doctor's office if you have not, because this is the most accurate. Blood pressure can also be temporarily elevated by pain and stress, so it important to have it measured on several occasions. If your blood pressure is persistently elevated, then there are several things you can do to reduce it.

First, dietary changes can decrease your blood pressure. The best diet to reduce blood pressure is the DASH diet, which is high in fruits/vegetables and low in saturated fats. If you are interested, you can search for the DASH diet to find out further details. Limiting salt intake helps some patients lower their blood pressure and the recommendation is to reduce it to less than 2000 mg daily. Regular exercise can also reduce your blood pressure and the current recommendation is to exercise 1 hour at least five times weekly. Excess alcohol can also increase blood pressure so you should limit your alcohol consumption to less than 2 drinks if you are male or 1 drink if you are female. If you are overweight, then even a mild decrease in weight will improve your blood pressure. Medications to lower the blood pressure may also be needed and there are many available. Discuss this with your doctor if needed. Good luck.

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