Understanding High Blood Pressure: Systolic & Diastolic Readings

High blood pressure can lead to a number of serious problems. It often produces no symptoms and the only way to know where you stand is to get it checked. If you have high blood pressure, you can do several things to reduce it.

What is High Blood Pressure

• If you are a healthy adult, any readings above 140/90 indicate high blood pressure. The top number represents systolic pressure (when the heart is beating) while the lower number indicates diastolic pressure (pressure between beats while heart is at rest).

Considerations for High Blood Pressure

• While most people enter the danger zone with a reading higher than 140/90, people with certain conditions can put themselves at risk with lower readings; if you have diabetes or have a risk for coronary artery disease, readings above 130/80 can be problematic. If you suffer from heart failure or have severe kidney problems, anything above 120/80 is undesirable.

Normal Blood Pressure

• 120/80 represents ideal blood pressure although some doctors, according to the Mayo Clinic believe 115/75 is even better. Any reading with systolic pressure between 120 and 139 and diastolic pressure between 80 and 89 indicate pre-hypertension.

Lowering Blood Pressure

• Lifestyle changes and medications can help you achieve normal blood pressure. Limit sodium intake to 2,400 mg or less; 1,500 or less can produce dramatic results according to the Mayo Clinic. Eat potassium-rich foods.

Monitoring Blood Pressure

• The Mayo Clinic recommends blood pressure readings at least every two years starting at age 20.