Blood Pressure

Blood Pressure

High blood pressure is called hypertension. This blood pressure chart can help you figure out if your blood pressure is at a healthy level. It also can help you understand if you need to take some steps to improve your numbers.

Blood pressure is measured in millimeters of mercury (mm Hg). A blood pressure reading has two numbers.

Top number, called systolic pressure. The top number measures the pressure in the arteries when the heart beats.
Bottom number, called diastolic pressure. The bottom number measures the pressure in the arteries between heartbeats.

The American College of Cardiology and the American Heart Association divide blood pressure into four general categories. Ideal blood pressure is categorized as normal. Increased blood pressure may be categorized as elevated, stage 1 or stage 2 depending on the specific numbers.

A diagnosis of high blood pressure is usually based on the average of two or more readings taken on separate visits. The first time your blood pressure is checked, it should be measured in both arms to see if there is a difference. After that, the arm with the higher reading should be used. An accurate reading is important. It helps your healthcare team decide what kind of treatment you may need, if any.

A blood pressure measurement over 180/120 mm Hg is called a hypertensive emergency or crisis. Seek emergency medical help for anyone with these blood pressure numbers.

If your blood pressure is OK, following a healthy lifestyle may prevent or delay high blood pressure or other health problems.  If your blood pressure is high, you may need lifestyle changes and medicines to control it and reduce the risk of complications, such as heart attacks and strokes.