Question

Hypertension is the elevation of blood pressure above normal. Which of the following is generally accepted as hypertension?

• A. Systolic BP \(>\) 120 & Diastolic BP \(>\) 60 mmHg
• B. Systolic BP \(>\) 110 & Diastolic BP \(>\) 70 mmHg
• C. Systolic BP \(>\) 90 & Diastolic BP \(>\) 140 mmHg
• D. Systolic BP \(>\) 140 & Diastolic BP \(>\) 90 mmHg

Hint:

Hypertension is typically diagnosed when the systolic pressure is greater than 140 mmHg or the diastolic pressure is greater than 90 mmHg.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

Step 1: Understanding Hypertension.
Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is typically diagnosed when either the systolic or diastolic pressure exceeds certain thresholds. Systolic pressure refers to the pressure when the heart beats, and diastolic pressure refers to the pressure when the heart is at rest.
Step 2: Analyzing the options. 
- (A) Systolic BP \(>\) 120 & Diastolic BP \(>\) 60 mmHg: This is not considered hypertension, as normal blood pressure is typically around 120/80 mmHg.
- (B) Systolic BP \(>\) 110 & Diastolic BP \(>\) 70 mmHg: This is within a normal or slightly elevated range, but it is not hypertension.
- (C) Systolic BP \(>\) 90 & Diastolic BP \(>\) 140 mmHg: This is incorrect, as diastolic pressure of 140 mmHg is extremely high and suggests a medical emergency, but the systolic pressure is lower than the accepted threshold.
- (D) Systolic BP \(>\) 140 & Diastolic BP \(>\) 90 mmHg: This is the correct answer. A blood pressure reading above 140/90 mmHg is typically classified as hypertension.

Step 3: Conclusion.
Therefore, the correct answer is (D) Systolic BP \(>\) 140 & Diastolic BP \(>\) 90 mmHg, as this is the threshold for diagnosing hypertension.
Final Answer: (D) Systolic BP \(>\) 140 & Diastolic BP \(>\) 90 mmHg.