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Blood Pressure Chart
Check if your blood pressure is normal, elevated, or high. Understand your readings based on American Heart Association (AHA) guidelines.
Category
Understanding Your Numbers
Blood pressure is recorded as two numbers:
- Systolic (Top number): How much pressure your blood is exerting against your artery walls when the heart beats.
- Diastolic (Bottom number): How much pressure your blood is exerting against your artery walls while the heart is resting between beats.
⚠️ The "Silent Killer"
High blood pressure (hypertension) often has no symptoms. You can have it for years without knowing it, while it quietly damages your heart and blood vessels. Regular monitoring is the only way to know.
Blood Pressure Categories (AHA)
| Category | Systolic | Diastolic |
|---|---|---|
| Normal | Less than 120 | Less than 80 |
| Elevated | 120 - 129 | Less than 80 |
| High BP (Stage 1) | 130 - 139 | 80 - 89 |
| High BP (Stage 2) | 140 or higher | 90 or higher |
| Hypertensive Crisis | Higher than 180 | Higher than 120 |
💡 Expert Tip from Dr. Alex M.
Don't rely on a single reading. Blood pressure fluctuates throughout the day. Take 2-3 readings one minute apart and average them. Also, avoid caffeine and exercise for 30 minutes before measuring.
Frequently Asked Questions
What do the two numbers mean?
The top number (systolic) measures the pressure in your arteries when your heart beats. The bottom number (diastolic) measures the pressure when your heart rests between beats. Both are important.
What is considered normal blood pressure?
Normal blood pressure is less than 120/80 mm Hg. If your readings are consistently higher, you may have elevated blood pressure or hypertension.
When should I seek emergency help?
If your blood pressure is higher than 180/120 mm Hg, wait five minutes and test again. If it's still high, contact your doctor immediately. If you also have chest pain, shortness of breath, or difficulty speaking, call 911.