According to the World Health Organization, high blood pressure (hypertension) is the leading cause of cardiovascular disease and premature death globally. Despite its prevalence, many people who have high blood pressure may not even know they have it, as it often has no symptoms.

If left untreated, high blood pressure can open the door to numerous health complications such as stroke, heart attack, and kidney failure.

For individuals seeking life insurance coverage, high blood pressure can also impact their eligibility and rates. If you have been diagnosed with hypertension or are curious about what is considered high blood pressure for life insurance, this blog will provide valuable information and guidance on your options for life insurance coverage.

What Are Considered High Blood Pressure Levels?

Blood pressure refers to the measured force exerted against the walls of your veins as blood circulates through your body. The pressure is measured in millimeters of mercury (mmHg) and can be expressed as two numbers – systolic and diastolic pressure. The systolic pressure represents the highest pressure in the arteries as the heart beats, while the diastolic pressure represents the lowest pressure in the arteries between the heartbeats when the heart is resting.

Normal blood pressure levels are typically between 90/60 mmHg and 120/80 mmHg. When either of these numbers is too high or too low, it can indicate various health problems such as hypertension (high blood pressure) or hypotension (low blood pressure).

It’s essential to monitor your blood pressure regularly so you can make any necessary lifestyle changes if needed.

How High Blood Pressure Impacts Your Life Insurance Policy

Having high blood pressure can have a significant impact on your life insurance policy. Since high blood pressure can increase the risk of serious health complications such as stroke and heart disease, it is an essential factor for insurers to consider when setting premiums. For this reason, individuals with high readings may face higher premiums than those without any health problems.

Many people with high blood pressure can get life insurance, although the cost of coverage may be more expensive than it would be for someone without any health problems. It is important to understand how it is measured and what levels are considered high for life insurance purposes.

Most life insurance companies will consider an applicant’s blood pressure reading when determining their premiums and rates. Generally, applicants with high readings may face higher premiums than those without any health problems. However, if the condition is managed and treated properly, the policyholder may even be eligible for better rates.

In some cases, insurers will even offer the best possible rates for applicants who have a properly managed condition. If you suffer from high blood pressure and are looking for life insurance, it is crucial to speak to an experienced broker who can help you find the most affordable coverage.

What Is Considered High Blood Pressure For Life Insurance?

For life insurance purposes, the American Heart Association considers a blood pressure reading of 130/80 or higher as “high.” This means that your systolic pressure is at least 130 mmHg, and your diastolic pressure is at least 80 mmHg.

Insurance companies typically use a scale to determine how high your blood pressure must be in order to qualify for life insurance coverage. For instance, some companies may consider 140/90 as their cutoff point, while others may consider 160/100 as their cutoff point. It is important to remember that these thresholds can vary depending on the company you choose and your individual health history.

Blood pressure gauge displaying a 174 over 120

The main cause of high blood pressure is not known; however, certain factors such as age, anxiety, genetics, obesity, smoking habits, and drug use can increase your overall risk.

People with hypertension need to be monitored regularly by their doctor in order to identify any changes in their condition. Treatment for high blood pressure typically includes medications and lifestyle changes such as reducing stress levels and improving diet and exercise habits.

Types of Life Insurance Available For High Blood Pressure Applicants

Although high blood pressure can make it difficult to get life insurance coverage, there are still options available to you. Depending on the severity of your condition, you may be able to secure a policy as long as your doctor confirms that your health is stable.

Some insurers even offer special policies designed specifically for those with high blood pressure, but these policies typically come with higher premiums and more restrictive conditions than standard policies.

Term Life Insurance

Term life insurance is a great choice for those looking for coverage for a set period of time. It provides financial protection to your loved ones in case of death or disability during the term of the policy.

Term life policies typically last from 10 to 30 years and can be renewed after the initial term has expired. Premiums are generally lower than other types of life insurance, making it an affordable option for those on a budget. Additionally, term life insurance can help you leave money behind to cover unexpected expenses or outstanding debts like student loans.

Start your application for Term Life Insurance. 

Permanent Life Insurance

Permanent life insurance is an ideal option for those who want lifetime coverage that can be passed on to their beneficiaries. It offers a level of financial protection and flexibility that cannot be provided by term life insurance.

A major benefit of permanent life insurance policies is that they accumulate cash value over time, allowing the policyholder to borrow against the value in case of emergencies. Additionally, the premiums for permanent life insurance plans are typically higher than term life premiums but remain consistent throughout the life of the policy.

For those looking for long-term stability and financial security, permanent life insurance provides a reliable source of income if something were to happen to the policyholder.

Start your application for permanent life insurance.

Universal Life Insurance

Universal life insurance is a variant of permanent life insurance that offers policyholders the flexibility to customize their coverage to fit their changing needs. Unlike term life insurance, universal life insurance has no fixed expiration date and builds up cash value over time.

The policyholder is able to adjust the premium payments and death benefit amounts depending on financial or lifestyle changes. This allows for greater control over the policy’s cost and performance.

Universal life policies also have the potential to earn tax-deferred interest on any money that accumulates in the cash value account. So long as premiums are paid on time, this type of life insurance provides lifelong protection at an affordable cost.

Start your application for universal life insurance.

Final Expense Insurance

Final expense insurance is a limited-scope policy designed to cover the costs of funerals, burials, and other related expenses. It may be the only option for those who are not already insured and have high blood pressure levels or coexisting medical diagnoses.

Final expense policies typically offer coverage between $5,000 and $25,000 at a higher cost than other types of life insurance. Premiums must be paid in full on time in order to keep the policy active.

This type of life insurance provides peace of mind that any final expenses will be taken care of in the event of death.

Start your application for final expense insurance.

How ALIA Quotes Can Help

ALIA Quotes is a free online tool designed to help individuals obtain life insurance quotes quickly and easily. Through our platform, you can compare quotes from multiple life insurance companies or calculate your specific life insurance needs. This allows you to find the best coverage for your particular situation, even if you have high blood pressure or other pre-existing conditions.

Our platform also offers educational resources and personalized guidance to assist you in making informed decisions about your life insurance coverage. By using ALIA Quotes, you can find the right life insurance policy in no time.

Explore Your Options For Life Insurance

When it comes to finding life insurance with high blood pressure, it is necessary to explore all of the options available to you. It is crucial to secure life insurance coverage to ensure that your loved ones are protected financially in the event of your unexpected passing.

Different insurance companies may have different requirements when it comes to pre-existing conditions like high blood pressure. Some may offer more lenient coverage, while others may require additional medical tests or higher premiums. It is always best to compare quotes from multiple companies so that you can make the best decision for your particular situation.

Don’t let high blood pressure deter you from seeking life insurance coverage. Instead, seek the help of professionals who can help you through the process of finding the right policy.

Here at ALIA Quotes, we can help you get started by providing accurate and up-to-date life insurance quotes from leading providers in just a few minutes. Our team is dedicated to helping individuals with high blood pressure find the coverage they need. With our years of experience and helpful customer service, we make it easy for anyone to find the right life insurance policy for their needs.

Contact us or schedule a call with one of our experts today to learn more about your options.

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FAQs

The most frequently asked questions related to life insurance and high blood pressure. For answers to questions like these and more, be sure to check out our FAQ page.

What is the biggest misconception about getting life insurance if you have high blood pressure?

The biggest misconception about getting life insurance if you have high blood pressure is that you won’t be able to get coverage or that you’ll have to pay exorbitant premiums. While high blood pressure is a significant risk factor for various health issues, including heart disease and stroke, it doesn’t necessarily mean that you can’t get life insurance. 

Many insurance providers offer coverage to people with high blood pressure, albeit at higher premiums. It’s crucial to understand that insurance companies assess each applicant’s overall health and risk factors, including age, weight, and lifestyle habits, in addition to their blood pressure levels. Therefore, having high blood pressure doesn’t necessarily disqualify you from obtaining life insurance.

Are there proven ways for people to lower, or at least manage their blood pressure?

Yes, several studies have proven ways to lower or manage blood pressure, including:

Sustaining a healthy weight: Being overweight or obese increases the risk of high blood pressure. Losing weight through a well-balanced diet and regular exercise can help reduce blood pressure levels.

Adopt a healthy diet: A diet rich in low-fat dairy products, fruits, lean proteins, vegetables, and whole grains can help lower blood pressure. It’s also recommended to limit sodium, alcohol, and caffeine intake.

Exercise regularly: Regular physical activity, such as brisk walking, jogging, or cycling, can help lower blood pressure levels.

Manage stress: Stress can increase blood pressure levels. Techniques such as meditation, deep breathing, and yoga can help manage stress.

Take medication as prescribed: If lifestyle changes alone aren’t enough to lower blood pressure, medication may be necessary. It’s essential to take medication as prescribed by a doctor to manage blood pressure effectively.

How much more could someone with high blood pressure expect to pay for life insurance than someone without it, all other things being equal?

The amount that someone with high blood pressure could expect to pay for life insurance varies depending on the insurance provider and the severity of the condition. Generally, individuals with high blood pressure can expect to pay higher premiums than those without the condition. 

The difference in premiums can range from a few dollars to hundreds of dollars per month, depending on the insurer and the severity of the high blood pressure. It’s important to note that insurance providers will also consider other factors, such as age, gender, lifestyle habits, and family medical history when determining premiums.

Can I get life insurance if I take medication for high blood pressure?

Yes, you can still qualify for insurance if you take medication for high blood pressure. While high blood pressure is a risk factor for several health conditions, including heart disease and stroke, taking medication to manage your health condition is a positive step towards reducing the associated risks. 

Insurance providers will consider your overall health and medical history when determining your eligibility and premiums. They may also require additional medical information from your medical provider to assess the severity of your condition and any associated risks. It’s essential to be transparent about your medical history and provide accurate information to ensure that you get the coverage you need.