The pumping action of the heart exerts a certain amount of force on the blood, which is felt against the walls of blood vessels and is referred to as blood pressure. During this pumping action, the heart contracts and beats. It is obvious that when the heart beats the blood pressure is maximum and when it is in a relaxed state (at rest) blood pressure is at its minimum. The maximum blood pressure achieved during heart contraction, is referred to as systolic blood pressure. When the heart does not beat and is relaxing, the blood pressure is found to be lowest and is known as diastolic blood pressure. For a healthy person the device shows a reading of 120 mmHg systolic pressure and 80 mmHg diastolic pressure. Isolated Systolic Hypertension (ISH) In ISH, systolic blood pressure abnormally increases but surprisingly the diastolic blood pressure is within the normal range (80 to 90 mmHg). The reading indicates a sharp rise in systolic blood pressure, which is more than 140 mmHg but diastolic blood pressure does not deviate from its normal range. Is It Harmful? A decade ago, ISH was considered to be a harmless condition and was often ignored. However, today doctors are of the firm opinion that this condition cannot be taken lightly, as it can lead to health issues that can affect the kidneys, heart and may even cause a stroke. Symptoms Generally ISH strikes in older adults after the age of 50 and the person affected often complains about frequent episodes of headache. The heart may also produce some abnormal sounds that are not the same as heart beats. Frequent urination and in some cases severe vision abnormalities are observed in ISH patients. Causes ISH is classified as an age related disorder and usually does not affect children. With age, there might be some abnormal changes in the pattern of blood circulation or the functioning of the heart, which may cause ISH. Also, people diagnosed with diabetes or those who are weight may suffer from this condition. This condition can also occur when the arteries significantly lose their elasticity and become stiff. In such a case, the heart has to push the blood with greater force to ensure proper blood circulation to different organs. The extra force exerted by the heart, ultimately leads to what is known as isolated systolic hypertension. Treatment Medications may be prescribed to lower ISH. Apart from medicines, making lifestyle modifications that support healthy blood pressure levels, is necessary. The medicine will work when the person gives up leading a sedentary lifestyle. Maintaining a healthy weight is essential to manage this condition effectively. Daily exercise will not only help to control weight but also lower ISH. Physical activities like brisk walking, jogging, and cycling for a period of 30 minutes will ensure that the condition does not become troublesome and interferes with day-to-day routine. When it comes to diet to control ISH, avoiding salty food is essential. Doctors specifically recommend to follow a low salt diet. Patients are also advised to increase consumption of foods rich in potassium and calcium rich foods as these minerals can also help to control this condition effectively. Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is solely for educating the reader. It is not intended to be a substitute for the advice of a medical expert.