Bently
MuscleChemistry Registered Member
What Do the Numbers Mean?
Blood pressure is always expressed in two numbers that represent the systolic and diastolic pressures. These numbers are measurements of millimeters (mm) of mercury (Hg). The measurement is written one above or before the other, with the systolic number on the top and the diastolic number on the bottom. For example, a blood pressure measurement of 120/80 mm Hg is expressed verbally as "120 over 80." See the table below which shows categories for blood pressure levels in adults.
If your blood pressure is less than 140/90 mm Hg, it is considered normal. However, a blood pressure below 120/80 mm Hg is even better for your heart and blood vessels. People use to think that low blood pressure (for example, 105/65 mm Hg in an adult) was unhealthy. Except for rare cases, this is not true. High blood pressure or "hypertension" is classified by stages and is more serious as the numbers get higher.
Categories for Blood Pressure
Levels in Adults*
(Age 18 Years and Older)
Blood Pressure Level (mm Hg)
Category Systolic Diastolic
Normal <130 <85
High Normal 130-139 85-89
High Blood Pressure
Stage 1 140-159 90-99
Stage 2 160-179 100-109
Stage 3 >180 >110
*For those not taking medicine for high blood pressure and not having a short term serious illness. These categories are from the National High Blood Pressure Education Program.
(> means greater than or equal to)
Blood pressure is always expressed in two numbers that represent the systolic and diastolic pressures. These numbers are measurements of millimeters (mm) of mercury (Hg). The measurement is written one above or before the other, with the systolic number on the top and the diastolic number on the bottom. For example, a blood pressure measurement of 120/80 mm Hg is expressed verbally as "120 over 80." See the table below which shows categories for blood pressure levels in adults.
If your blood pressure is less than 140/90 mm Hg, it is considered normal. However, a blood pressure below 120/80 mm Hg is even better for your heart and blood vessels. People use to think that low blood pressure (for example, 105/65 mm Hg in an adult) was unhealthy. Except for rare cases, this is not true. High blood pressure or "hypertension" is classified by stages and is more serious as the numbers get higher.
Categories for Blood Pressure
Levels in Adults*
(Age 18 Years and Older)
Blood Pressure Level (mm Hg)
Category Systolic Diastolic
Normal <130 <85
High Normal 130-139 85-89
High Blood Pressure
Stage 1 140-159 90-99
Stage 2 160-179 100-109
Stage 3 >180 >110
*For those not taking medicine for high blood pressure and not having a short term serious illness. These categories are from the National High Blood Pressure Education Program.
(> means greater than or equal to)
. good info .
