1. What Is Blood Pressure?
Blood pressure is the force of your blood pushing against the walls of your arteries as your heart pumps. It is written as two numbers, for example: 120 / 80 mm Hg.
- Systolic (top number) – pressure when the heart beats.
- Diastolic (bottom number) – pressure when the heart relaxes between beats.
Both numbers are important. Over time, blood pressure that is too high can damage your heart, brain, kidneys and blood vessels – often without causing any clear symptoms.
Quick example
- 118 = systolic (upper number)
- 76 = diastolic (lower number)
- This reading would generally be considered in the normal range for an adult.
“mm Hg” stands for millimeters of mercury and is simply the standard unit used to measure blood pressure.
2. Blood Pressure Categories (Adults)
Blood pressure is usually classified into ranges. The categories below are based on commonly used international guidelines for adults measured in a clinic or at home. Only a health professional can diagnose hypertension.
| Category | Systolic (top) | And / or | Diastolic (bottom) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Normal | < 120 mm Hg | and | < 80 mm Hg |
| Elevated | 120–129 mm Hg | and | < 80 mm Hg |
| High BP – Stage 1 | 130–139 mm Hg | or | 80–89 mm Hg |
| High BP – Stage 2 | ≥ 140 mm Hg | or | ≥ 90 mm Hg |
| Hypertensive crisis* | ≥ 180 mm Hg | and / or | ≥ 120 mm Hg |
These categories are only a general guide. Some people (for example those with kidney disease, diabetes or heart disease) may have different target ranges. Always follow the advice of your own doctor or nurse.
3. Why High Blood Pressure Matters
High blood pressure (also called hypertension) often has no warning signs, but it slowly damages the body over time. This is why it is sometimes called a “silent killer”.
Possible long-term complications
- Heart attack and heart failure
- Stroke and mini-stroke (TIA)
- Kidney damage and kidney failure
- Eye damage and vision problems
- Memory problems and increased risk of dementia
How it feels (often, it doesn’t)
Many people with high blood pressure feel completely fine. Relying on symptoms alone is not safe.
When to seek urgent help
- Very high reading (for example 180/120 or higher) plus symptoms such as:
- – severe chest pain or shortness of breath
- – sudden weakness or numbness on one side of the body
- – trouble speaking, sudden confusion, or vision loss
- – severe, sudden headache unlike usual
These may be signs of a heart attack or stroke. Call emergency services right away.
4. How to Measure Blood Pressure at Home
Home blood pressure monitors are widely available and easy to use. Measuring at home can give your health care provider a more accurate picture of your day-to-day numbers.
Before you measure
- Rest quietly for at least 5 minutes.
- Avoid caffeine, smoking, and exercise for 30 minutes before.
- Empty your bladder if you need to.
Correct body position
- Sit in a chair with your back supported and feet flat on the floor.
- Keep your arm supported on a table at heart level.
- Use the correct cuff size for your arm.
- Do not talk or move during the measurement.
Good practice
- Take 2 readings, 1–2 minutes apart, and write down both.
- Measure at about the same times each day (for example morning and evening).
- Bring your readings to your medical appointments.
5. Everyday Habits That Help Lower Blood Pressure
For many people, lifestyle changes are the first and most important step. Even if your doctor prescribes medication, these habits still matter.
Heart-healthy habits
- Reduce salt (sodium): Choose fresh foods when possible, and limit highly processed or salty snacks and sauces.
- Eat more plants: Fill half your plate with vegetables and fruit.
- Move your body: Aim for about 150 minutes per week of moderate activity like brisk walking, if your doctor says it is safe.
- Limit alcohol: If you drink, do so in moderation.
- Maintain a healthy weight: Even modest weight loss can reduce blood pressure.
Other important steps
- Stop smoking: Smoking damages blood vessels and greatly increases heart and stroke risk.
- Manage stress: Try deep breathing, stretching, walking, or other relaxing activities.
- Sleep well: Poor sleep and untreated sleep apnea can raise blood pressure.
- Take medicine as prescribed: If your doctor prescribes medication, do not stop or change the dose without checking with them.
6. Frequently Asked Questions
Is one high reading always a problem?
Not necessarily. Blood pressure can temporarily rise with stress, pain, exercise, or even talking. A diagnosis of hypertension is usually based on several readings taken on different days, or on a 24-hour monitoring test. Do not ignore a high reading, but do not panic either—discuss it with your health care provider.
Can I feel when my blood pressure is high?
Many people with high blood pressure feel completely normal. Headaches or dizziness are not reliable signs. The only way to know your blood pressure is to measure it.
Do I have to take medicine forever?
Some people are able to reduce or stop medication after major lifestyle changes, but this should always be decided together with a doctor. Never stop blood pressure medicine on your own, because a sudden rise in blood pressure can be dangerous.
When should I talk to a doctor?
- If your readings are often 130/80 mm Hg or higher.
- If you already have heart disease, diabetes, kidney disease or a history of stroke.
- If you are pregnant or planning pregnancy and have concerns about blood pressure.
This page provides general information for adults and cannot replace a consultation with a licensed health professional who knows your personal medical history.