You’ve probably had your blood pressure checked at a doctor’s office, pharmacy or health fair. The cuff tightens around your arm, the machine beeps, and suddenly you’re given two numbers. But do you know what those numbers actually mean?

Blood pressure readings can provide a lot of information about your heart health. Understanding them can help you know when things are normal and when it may be time to take action.

What Blood Pressure Numbers Tell You

Your heart sends blood throughout your body to deliver oxygen and nutrients. Each time it beats, pressure rises and falls inside your arteries. Blood pressure is the force of blood pushing against the walls of your arteries as your heart pumps.

A blood pressure reading includes two numbers. For example, you might see something like 120/80. The top number is called systolic pressure. This measures the pressure in your arteries when your heart beats and pushes blood out. The bottom number is called diastolic pressure. This shows the pressure in your arteries when your heart relaxes between beats.

Here’s how to know what your numbers mean:

• Normal Blood Pressure – A normal blood pressure reading is less than 120 systolic AND less than 80 diastolic. When your numbers are in this range, your heart and blood vessels are not under a lot of strain.
• Elevated Blood Pressure – If your numbers creep up slightly, your doctor may say you have elevated blood pressure. This means your systolic reading is 120-129 AND your diastolic reading is less than 80. You may not feel any symptoms, but it’s a warning sign that blood pressure could continue to rise. Lifestyle changes like eating healthier, moving more and cutting back on salt may help bring readings down.
• Stage 1 Hypertension – Blood pressure is considered Stage 1 hypertension when readings are consistently 130–139 systolic OR 80–89 diastolic. At this stage, doctors may recommend lifestyle changes and sometimes medication depending on your overall risk for heart disease or stroke.
• Stage 2 Hypertension – Blood pressure is considered Stage 2 hypertension when readings reach 140 or higher systolic OR 90 or higher diastolic, At this level, the heart and arteries are under more strain. Doctors often recommend both lifestyle changes and medication to help bring numbers down.
• Hypertensive Crisis – Very high readings can become a medical emergency. A hypertensive crisis occurs when blood pressure is 180 systolic or higher OR 120 diastolic or higher. If this happens and you have symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath, headache or vision change, it’s important to seek medical attention right away. If you have NO symptoms, recheck your blood pressure, and if possible, use a different blood pressure monitor as some home monitors can lose accuracy over time. If it’s still very high and you don’t have symptoms, call your healthcare provider to determine if emergency treatment is required.

The Dangers of High Blood Pressure

High blood pressure is often called a “silent” condition because many people feel fine even when their numbers are high. Over time, though, uncontrolled blood pressure can damage blood vessels and organs, increasing the risk of heart attack, stroke, kidney disease and vision problems. That’s why regular blood pressure checks are so important.

Simple Ways to Keep Blood Pressure Healthy

Small daily habits can help you better manage your blood pressure. Doctors often recommend:

• Eating more fruits, vegetables and whole grains
• Limiting salt and processed foods
• Staying physically active
• Maintaining a healthy weight
• Limiting alcohol
• Managing stress
• Not smoking

Your blood pressure numbers offer a quick snapshot of how hard your heart is working. Knowing what those numbers mean can help you catch problems early so you can take steps to better protect your health.

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