Understanding Your Blood Pressure
Blood Pressure
What is blood pressure?
Blood pressure is the pressure of the blood on the walls of the blood vessels as blood is being carried to different parts of your body. The top number (systolic pressure) is when the heart pumps or contracts. The lower number (diastolic pressure) occurs when the heart is at rest between pumps or contractions. Normal blood pressure is less than 120/80 mmHg. Elevated is defined as a blood pressure in the range of systolic (top number) 120-129 mmHg over the diastolic (bottom number) less than 80 mmHg. High blood pressure is diagnosed by your healthcare professional when multiple readings are 130/90 mmHg or over. A Hypertensive Crisis is defined by blood pressure that is, systolic (top number) is higher than 180 mmHg and/or the diastolic (bottom number) is higher than 120. mmHg
High Blood Pressure
High Blood Pressure also known as the "Silent Killer," is diagnosed by your healthcare provider when multiple readings are above 140/90 mmHg. High Blood Pressure is known as the "Silent Killer" due to the fact that most of the time there are no symptoms, this is why it is important to get you blood pressure checked regularly. High blood pressure increases your risk for heart disease and stroke, which are leading causes of death in the United States of America. Unhealthy lifestyles can also increase your risk for high blood pressure, such as smoking, drinking excessive alcohol, eating foods high in sodium, having a diet low in potassium, living a sediment lifestyle, and being overweight.
Blood Pressure Ranges
Normal blood pressure is less than 120/80 mmHg
Elevated is diagnosed by your healthcare professional as a blood pressure in the range of systolic (top number) 120-129 and diastolic (bottom number) less than 80 after multiple readings are taken by your healthcare professional over a set course of time.
High Blood Pressure Stage 1 is diagnosed by your healthcare professional when there are multiple readings of systolic (top number) 130-139 or diastolic (bottom number) 80-89 over a course of time.
High Blood Pressure Stage 2 is diagnosed by your healthcare professional when there are multiple readings systolic (top number) 140 or higher or diastolic (bottom number) 90 or higher over a course of time.
Hypertensive Crisis you should consult your doctor immediately if your systolic (top number) is higher than 180 and/or your diastolic (bottom number) is higher than 120.
Medical Disclaimer
The information provided on this site is intended for your general knowledge only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice or treatment for specific medical conditions. You should not use this information to diagnose or treat a health problem or disease without consulting with a qualified healthcare provider. Please consult your healthcare provider with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your condition.