Is a Diastolic Blood Pressure of 105 mmHg Serious?

When your diastolic blood pressure, the lower number in a blood pressure reading, reaches 105 mmHg, it indicates a serious health condition. If this level is consistent rather than a temporary spike, it may be diagnosed as isolated diastolic hypertension. Without proper and timely intervention, this condition can lead to significant damage to vital organs and can even be life-threatening. The potential complications include:

Impact on the Brain

Severe damage to brain function can occur due to the development of advanced atherosclerosis in cerebral blood vessels. This increases the risk of acute events such as ischemic stroke or hemorrhagic stroke, both of which can be fatal or result in long-term disability.

Effects on the Heart

Cardiovascular complications are a major concern. Chronic high diastolic pressure can lead to coronary artery disease, heart failure, and various types of arrhythmias. These conditions heighten the risk of acute cardiac events like myocardial infarction (heart attack), acute left ventricular failure, and dangerous rhythm disturbances that can be fatal if not treated promptly.

Risk to Kidney Function

Progressive kidney damage is another serious consequence. Over time, uncontrolled diastolic hypertension can impair renal function, potentially leading to end-stage renal disease. At this stage, patients often require lifelong dialysis or kidney transplantation to sustain life.

Damage to Blood Vessels

Systemic vascular deterioration occurs as hypertension accelerates atherosclerosis throughout the body. This can result in reduced blood flow to vital organs, increasing the risk of peripheral artery disease, vision loss, and other complications due to inadequate organ perfusion.

Importance of Timely Treatment

Once hypertension is diagnosed—especially when diastolic readings consistently reach 105 mmHg or higher—it is crucial to seek guidance from a qualified hypertension specialist. Most patients will require long-term or lifelong antihypertensive medication to maintain safe blood pressure levels and prevent irreversible organ damage. Early and consistent management is key to reducing the risk of life-threatening complications and improving overall prognosis.