Understanding Blood Pressure: What Does 140/116 Mean?

A blood pressure reading of 140/116 mmHg:

*Systolic blood pressure:* Elevated (normal is less than 120 mmHg).

*Diastolic blood pressure:* Normal (normal is between 80-85 mmHg).

If your blood pressure reading is 140/116 mmHg, you are considered to be prehypertensive. This means that your blood pressure is higher than normal, but not high enough to be classified as hypertension (high blood pressure).

It's important to take steps to lower your blood pressure to prevent it from developing into hypertension, which is a major risk factor for heart disease and stroke.

To lower your blood pressure, you can make some lifestyle changes such as:

* Eating a healthy diet

* Exercising regularly

* Maintaining a healthy weight

* Reducing alcohol intake

* Reducing salt intake

* Quitting smoking

* Reducing stress levels

*Getting enough sleep.

If your blood pressure does not improve with lifestyle changes, your doctor may prescribe medications to help lower it.

It is important to follow your doctor's instructions and monitor your blood pressure regularly to ensure that it is well-controlled.