Blood Pressure Categories (NHS / AHA)

What the Numbers Mean

Systolic (top number): pressure when heart contracts. Diastolic (bottom number): pressure between beats. Normal: under 120/80. Elevated: 120–129 / under 80. High Stage 1: 130–139 / 80–89. High Stage 2: 140+ / 90+. Crisis: over 180/120 — seek urgent care.

When to Measure

Take readings when rested (5 minutes sitting quietly). Avoid caffeine, exercise, and smoking for 30 minutes prior. Measure both arms initially — use the arm that consistently gives the higher reading. Multiple readings over time are more meaningful than a single measurement.

Lowering Blood Pressure

Lifestyle factors that lower blood pressure: reducing salt intake, increasing exercise, maintaining healthy weight, reducing alcohol, quitting smoking, and stress management. DASH diet has strong clinical evidence. For Stage 2 hypertension, medication is usually recommended alongside lifestyle changes.

Blood Pressure Range Checker

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