Getting life insurance with high blood pressure
If you have high blood pressure, you may be concerned about how it will affect your ability to get life insurance and the cost of your premiums. While high blood pressure can impact your rates, there are steps you can take to get affordable coverage and protect your loved ones. Read on to learn more.
- updated last on April 12, 2023
Does high blood pressure affect life insurance rates?
Yes, high blood pressure can impact your life insurance rates. Insurance companies consider high blood pressure a risk factor for various health conditions, such as heart disease and stroke. As a result, individuals with high blood pressure may be considered higher risk and may be charged higher premiums for life insurance coverage. However, there are ways to get affordable coverage despite your condition, such as shopping around and comparing rates from different companies.
When applying for life insurance, disclosing any pre-existing medical conditions, including high blood pressure, is important. Insurance companies will typically ask for your blood pressure readings from the past few years and any medications you may be taking to manage the condition. Based on this information, they will assess your risk level and determine your premium rates. However, it’s important to note that not all insurance companies view high blood pressure the same way, so it’s worth shopping around and comparing rates from different providers. Additionally, lifestyle changes such as exercising regularly, maintaining a healthy diet, and quitting smoking can help improve your overall health and potentially lower your life insurance rates.
What is considered high blood pressure for life insurance
High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, is a common condition affecting millions worldwide. High blood pressure is typically defined as having a reading of 140/90 or higher for life insurance purposes. However, some insurance companies may use slightly different criteria, so it’s important to check with your provider to see how they define high blood pressure. Remember that even if you have high blood pressure, you may still be able to get affordable life insurance coverage.
When applying for life insurance, your blood pressure will be one of the factors that insurers consider when determining your rates. If your blood pressure is considered high, you may be classified at a higher risk for health complications, which could result in higher premiums. However, there are steps you can take to manage your blood pressure and lower your rates. This may include making lifestyle changes such as exercising regularly, eating a healthy diet, and reducing stress. Working with your doctor to manage your blood pressure through medication or other treatments can also help improve your chances of getting affordable life insurance coverage.
What is stage 1 hypertension
After asking a few questions about your medical history, your doctor will do a physical examination. The doctor, nurse, or another medical assistant will place an inflatable arm cuff around your arm and measure your blood pressure using a pressure-measuring gauge.
Your blood pressure generally should be measured in both arms to determine if there is a difference, but they usually will only test one. It’s essential to use the right-sized arm cuff.
Prehypertension, also known as stage 1 hypertension, is where the systolic (top number) reading is 120 mmHg-139 mmHg or the diastolic (bottom number) reading is 80 mmHg-89 mmHg. Prehypertension is a warning sign that you may get high blood pressure in the future.
Life insurance blood pressure chart
The five blood pressure ranges as according to the American Heart Association are:
Normal
Life insurance blood pressure chart numbers of less than 120/80 mm Hg are considered normal. If your results fall into this category, stick with heart-healthy habits like following a balanced diet and getting regular exercise.
Elevated
Elevated or high blood pressure is when readings consistently range from 120-129 systolic and less than 80 mm Hg diastolic. People with elevated blood pressure are likely to develop high blood pressure unless steps control the condition.
Hypertension Stage 1
Hypertension Stage 1 is when blood pressure consistently ranges from 130-139 systolic or 80-89 mm Hg diastolic. Doctors are likely to prescribe lifestyle changes at this stage of high blood pressure. They may consider adding blood pressure medication based on your risk of atherosclerotic cardiovascular diseases (ASCVD), such as heart attack or stroke.
Hypertension Stage 2
Hypertension Stage 2 is when blood pressure consistently ranges at 140/90 mm Hg or higher. At this stage of high blood pressure, doctors are likely to prescribe a combination of blood pressure medications and lifestyle changes.
Hypertensive crisis
This stage of high blood pressure requires medical attention. If your blood pressure readings suddenly exceed 180/120 mm Hg, wait five minutes and then test your blood pressure again. If your readings are still unusually high, contact your doctor immediately. You could be experiencing a hypertensive crisis.
If your blood pressure is higher than 180/120 mm Hg and you are experiencing signs of possible organ damage such as chest pain, shortness of breath, back pain, numbness/weakness, change in vision, or difficulty speaking, do not wait to see if your pressure comes down on its own. Call 911.
How to lower blood pressure for life insurance exam
It is essential to follow all the directions they give you before the test day. One of these directions will be to fast for a predetermined time before your scheduled appointment.
It is crucial to follow this explicitly to achieve the best results. There are many different foods and beverages that we consume with chemicals that alter our blood pressure. You can ask the doctor for a complete list of foods to avoid that could raise your blood pressure.
It is also essential to abstain from various caffeine and energy drinks sources the day of and before a life insurance exam because these can raise your blood pressure. Excellent idea to stay away from as much caffeine as possible on the day of your medical exam. It will be hard but don’t worry, drink as much as you want after the test.
Try not to smoke right before your test, as this might temporarily spike your rating. Also, some studies even say that a full bladder during your blood pressure test will skew the results, so make sure you go beforehand. Please don’t hold it in.
Stress significantly impacts blood pressure, so it’s essential to be as calm as possible and not be up and moving around too much.
It’s best to schedule in the morning if possible because some studies show blood pressure is lower in the morning.
- Exercise or increase general activity levels.
- Eat foods rich in potassium and reduce sodium intake.
- Meditate or do yoga.
- Prioritize quality sleep.
Simply losing 10 pounds will drop your blood pressure with diet and exercise. Think about all the money it could save you
Best life insurance companies for high blood pressure
When finding affordable life insurance coverage for high blood pressure, shopping around and comparing rates from different companies is important. Some insurance providers may be more lenient than others regarding high blood pressure, so it’s important to do your research. Some of the best life insurance companies for individuals with high blood pressure include Prudential, AIG, and Mutual of Omaha. These companies offer competitive rates and may be more willing to work with individuals with high blood pressure to find affordable coverage.
Prudential is a top choice for individuals with high blood pressure. They offer a program called PruTerm WorkLife 65 that allows policyholders to convert their term life insurance policy to a permanent one without undergoing additional medical exams. AIG also provides competitive rates for individuals with high blood pressure. They have a Vitality program that rewards policyholders for healthy habits like exercising and maintaining a healthy diet. Mutual of Omaha is another great option, as they offer a program called Guaranteed Universal Life Insurance that provides coverage without requiring a medical exam. When shopping for life insurance with high blood pressure, it’s important to disclose your condition to potential providers and compare rates to find the best coverage for your needs.
Compare quotes from Banner life insurance company.
While Banner insurance company may offer life insurance policies for individuals with high blood pressure, comparing quotes from multiple insurance companies to ensure you’re getting the best coverage at the most affordable rates is important. Consider working with an independent insurance agent to help you compare policies and rates from multiple companies, including Banner, to find the best option. Don’t let high blood pressure prevent you from getting the life insurance coverage you need to protect your loved ones.
Regarding life insurance rates, high blood pressure can have an impact. However, it’s important to note that each insurance company has its underwriting guidelines and may view high blood pressure differently. Banner insurance companies, for example, may offer policies for individuals with high blood pressure, but the rates may be higher than those without high blood pressure. That’s why comparing quotes from multiple insurance companies is important to find the best coverage at the most affordable rates. An independent insurance agent can help you navigate the process and find the right policy for your needs.
Compare the market, right here.
Coach B. saves you up to 60% by comparing the top-rated companies on our quote and apply platform.
Life insurance with diabetes and high blood pressure
Of course, it is evident that the healthier you are when you purchase a life insurance policy, the lower your premium will be. Most people trying to buy life insurance with diabetes and high blood pressure typically believe that because of their chronic disease, it makes them too way too expensive to insure or not insurable at all, for that matter.
However, life insurance companies for people with diabetes and high blood pressure look at how well you manage your conditions. If you can demonstrate that you have your diabetes and blood pressure under control, you can qualify for insurance, often at better rates than you might think.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the blood pressure limit for life insurance?
It depends on the insurance company and its specific underwriting guidelines. Generally, a blood pressure reading of 140/90 or higher may result in higher premiums or even a denial of coverage. However, some companies may be more lenient and consider other factors such as age and overall health. Speaking with a licensed insurance agent is best to determine your options.
Do I need to tell life insurance about high blood pressure?
Yes, disclosing any pre-existing medical conditions, including high blood pressure, is important when applying for life insurance. This information helps the insurance company assess the risk of insuring you and determine your premium. Failure to disclose this information could result in your policy being voided or denied in case of a claim.
How can I lower my blood pressure for a life insurance test?
Some tips for lowering your blood pressure before a life insurance exam include reducing your salt intake, avoiding caffeine and alcohol, exercising regularly, managing stress, and taking any prescribed medications as directed by your doctor. It's important to talk to your doctor before changing your health routine.
About Coach B.
After starting his financial career with Phoenix Home Life Insurance Company back in 1992, Scott decided he wanted to provide people with an easier and more enjoyable way to buy life insurance. That was the start of Coach B. Life Insurance, whose mission is to be transparent, honest, and helpful to customers — without ever bugging or pushing them.
In the years since then, he has worked tirelessly to improve the process of shopping for insurance. His goal is to make sure that everyone who comes to Coach B. — whether they end up buying a policy or not — has the best possible experience.
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