What do blood pressure numbers mean?
The only way to know if you have high blood pressure, also known as hypertension, is to have a blood pressure test. Understanding the consequences is the key to controlling high blood pressure.
Healthy and unhealthy blood pressure ranges
Learn what is considered normal, as recommended by the American Heart Association.
| blood pressure category | SYSTOLIC mmHg (upper value) | and/or | Diastolic mmHg (small number) |
|---|---|---|---|
| usually | less than 120 | and | less than 80 |
| heightened | 120 – 129 | and | less than 80 |
| Hypertension (hypertension) stage 1 | 130 – 139 | or | 80-89 |
| Hypertension (hypertension) stage 2 | 140 or more | or | 90 and above |
| Hypertension crisis (consult your doctor immediately) | 180 or more | and/or | 120 or more |
Note: Diagnosis of high blood pressure must be diagnosed by a doctor. Medical professionals should also evaluate any abnormal cases. low blood pressure readings.
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Blood pressure categories
The five blood pressure ranges recognized by the American Heart Association are:
usually
Blood pressure readings below 120/80 mm Hg (millimeters of mercury) are considered within normal limits. If your results fall into this category, continue your heart-healthy habits, such as a balanced diet and regular exercise.
elevated
Blood pressure is elevated when readings are consistently between 120 and 129 systolic and less than 80 mm Hg diastolic. People with high blood pressure may develop hypertension unless they take steps to control the condition.
hypertension stage 1
Hypertension stage 1 is when blood pressure is consistently in the range of 130 to 139 systolic or 80 to 89 mm Hg diastolic. At this stage of hypertension, medical professionals are likely to prescribe lifestyle changes and the addition of antihypertensive medications based on his risk of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease, such as heart attack or stroke, i.e. ASCVD. may be considered.
hypertension stage 2
Hypertension stage 2 is when blood pressure is consistently 140/90 mm Hg or higher. At this stage of high blood pressure, your health care professional may prescribe a combination of antihypertensive medications and lifestyle changes.
Hypertensive crisis
This stage of high blood pressure requires medical attention. If your blood pressure reading suddenly exceeds 180/120 mm Hg, wait 5 minutes and check your blood pressure again. If your readings are still abnormally high, contact your health care professional immediately. You may be experiencing a hypertensive crisis.
If your blood pressure is higher than 180/120 mm Hg or if you are experiencing signs of possible organ damage, such as chest pain, shortness of breath, back pain, numbness/weakness, changes in vision, or difficulty speaking. Don’t wait, check it out. The pressure will naturally go down. please call 911.
Blood pressure numbers and their meanings
Blood pressure is recorded as two numbers.
- systolic blood pressure (first number) – indicates the amount of pressure the blood exerts on the artery walls when the heart contracts.
- diastolic blood pressure (second number) – indicates the amount of pressure the blood exerts on the artery walls while the heart muscle is resting between contractions.
Which number is more important?
Generally, more attention is paid to systolic blood pressure (the first number) as the main risk factor for cardiovascular disease in people over 50 years of age. In most people, systolic blood pressure rises steadily with age because the stiffness of large arteries increases. Plaque builds up regularly, increasing the incidence of heart and vascular disease.
However, increased systolic blood pressure or increased diastolic blood pressure may be used to diagnose hypertension.
