Hypertension–or high blood pressure–increases your risk of developing serious health problems, including heart disease, stroke, and kidney disease.
While you can’t always control your high blood pressure, understanding your numbers can help prevent hypertension and reduce your risk of future health issues.
Your blood pressure measures the force of blood flowing through your blood vessels as your heart pumps blood around your body.
Systolic (top number)
The systolic number indicates the pressure in your arteries when your heart is beating.
Diastolic (bottom number)
The diastolic number indicates the pressure in your arteries while the heart is at rest between beats.
Healthy and unhealthy blood pressure ranges
Blood pressure category
Systolic (top number)
Diastolic (lower number)
Normal
Less than 120
Less than 80
Elevated
120-129
Less than 80
High (hypertension) stage 1
130-139
80-90
High (hypertension) stage 2
140 or higher
90 or higher
Hypertensive crisis
180 or higher
120 or higher
Some people experience abnormally low blood pressure–hypotension. This can also cause problems such as dizziness and fainting.
If you fall into the hypertensive crisis range, you should seek immediate medical care.
Heart care when you need it
If you have questions related to your blood pressure or overall health, schedule an appointment with your provider. They will discuss your numbers and help you make healthy changes to manage and lower your blood pressure.
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