Blood pressure is the force of blood pressing against the walls of the arteries. It is measured using two numbers: systolic "over" diastolic (for example, 110 "over" 80 or 110/80). Systolic blood pressure is the pressure of blood flow when the heart beats. Diastolic blood pressure is the pressure when the heart relaxes between beats.
What the Numbers Mean
| Category |
Systolic |
|
Diastolic |
Meaning |
| Normal |
less than
120 |
and |
less than
80 |
Good news! Maintain a healthy lifestyle to keep your blood pressure within normal limits. Have your blood pressure rechecked at least every 2 years. |
| Prehypertension |
120-139 |
or |
80-89 |
Your blood pressure could be a problem. Take steps now to be physically active, control your weight, eat healthfully, quit smoking, and manage stress. Have your blood pressure rechecked at least once a year. |
| Hypertension |
140
or higher |
or |
90
or higher |
You have high blood pressure. In addition to making positive lifestyle changes, you'll probably be prescribed at least one medication to help you keep your blood pressure below 140/90. Be sure to take your medication regularly as prescribed. |
Why it's important
If blood pressure stays high for extended periods of time, the heart has to pump blood against more resistance. This makes the heart and arteries more prone to injury. High blood pressure (hypertension) is sometimes called "the silent killer" because many people have it without knowing it. If high blood pressure isn't detected and treated, it greatly increases the risk of heart attack and stroke.
Risk factors
For most cases of high blood pressure, it's hard to pinpoint any one specific cause. However, a variety of factors increase your risk of high blood pressure:
Prevention
You can help prevent high blood pressure in these ways:
- Eat lots of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and low-fat sources of protein such as nuts and fish
- Reduce the salt and sodium in your diet
- Exercise regularly
- Maintain a healthy weight
- Limit your alcohol intake
- Quit smoking
Diagnosis and treatment
Blood pressure is measured using a cuff on your arm. High blood pressure is often treated using medication, but lifestyle changes and managing stress can also help lower blood pressure.