Hypertension is the term used to describe high blood pressure levels. This blood pressure chart will help you determine whether your blood pressure is within a healthy range. It can also assist you determine whether you need to take any efforts to enhance your numbers.
Blood pressure is measured in millimeters of mercury (mmHg). A blood pressure reading has two digits.
The top number is known as systolic pressure. The top number represents the pressure in the arteries when the heart beats.
The bottom value is known as diastolic pressure. The bottom number represents the pressure in the arteries between heartbeats.
The American College of Cardiology and the American Heart Association classify blood pressure into four categories. Normal blood pressure is what is considered ideal. Depending on the specific figures, increased blood pressure might be classified as either stage 1 or stage 2.
A high blood pressure diagnosis is often made based on the average of two or more readings obtained at separate visits. The first time your blood pressure is monitored, it should be taken in both arms to discover whether there is a difference. After that, use the arm with the highest reading. An correct reading is crucial. It assists your healthcare team in determining whether or not you require any type of therapy.
Here's a breakdown of the four blood pressure categories and what they represent for you. If your top and bottom numbers are in different categories, the greater category corresponds to your correct blood pressure level. For example, if your blood pressure is 125/85 mm Hg, you have stage one hypertension.
Below 120andBelow 80Normal blood pressureMaintain or adopt a healthy lifestyle.120 to 129andBelow 80Elevated blood pressureMaintain or adopt a healthy lifestyle.130 to 139or80 to 89Stage 1 hypertensionMaintain or adopt a healthy lifestyle. Talk to a healthcare professional about taking one or more medicines.140 or higheror90 or higherStage 2 hypertensionMaintain or adopt a healthy lifestyle. Talk to a healthcare professional about taking more than one medicine.
Sources: American College of Cardiology, American Heart Association.
Ranges may be lower for youngsters and adolescents. If you are concerned that your kid has high blood pressure, speak with their healthcare professional.
These suggestions treat high blood pressure as a single health condition. If you have heart disease, diabetes, chronic renal disease, or other problems, you may need to take your blood pressure medication more seriously.
A hypertensive emergency or crisis is defined as a blood pressure value of 180/120 mm Hg or above. If anyone has these blood pressure readings, get emergency medical attention.
Your healthcare team can advise you on the most appropriate blood pressure goal for you.
If your blood pressure is normal, living a healthy lifestyle can help avoid or delay high blood pressure and other health problems.
If you have high blood pressure, you may need to make lifestyle changes and take medications to lower it and reduce the risk of consequences including heart attacks and strokes.