Blood pressure is a key measure of cardiovascular health, but many people are unsure how to interpret their readings. Knowing what these numbers mean can assist with early hypertension detection and better blood pressure control.
This article explains how blood pressure readings are measured, what the numbers represent, and how to assess whether your readings are within a healthy range.
How Blood Pressure Is Measured
Blood pressure is recorded as two numbers, measured in millimetres of mercury (mmHg). It is assessed using a blood pressure monitor, either at home or during a medical consultation.
Systolic and Diastolic Pressure
- Systolic Pressure (Top Number): This represents the pressure in the arteries when the heart beats and pumps blood.
- Diastolic Pressure (Bottom Number): This measures the pressure in the arteries when the heart is at rest between beats.
Both numbers are significant, as persistently high readings may indicate hypertension, increasing the risk of cardiovascular disease.
How to Interpret Blood Pressure Categories
Blood pressure readings fall into different categories based on systolic and diastolic values. Recognising these categories can help determine whether blood pressure is within a healthy range or requires medical attention.
Normal Blood Pressure: Systolic pressure below 130 mmHg and diastolic pressure below 85 mmHg, indicating that the heart and blood vessels are functioning well.
High-Normal Blood Pressure: Systolic pressure between 130–139 mmHg and diastolic pressure between 85–89 mmHg, suggesting an increased risk of developing hypertension over time.
Grade 1 Hypertension: Systolic pressure between 140–159 mmHg and diastolic pressure between 90–99 mmHg. Lifestyle changes may help manage blood pressure at this stage, but medical evaluation is recommended.
Grade 2 Hypertension: Systolic pressure between 160–179 mmHg and diastolic pressure between 100–109 mmHg. This level often requires medical treatment to lower blood pressure and reduce long-term health risks.
Grade 3 Hypertension: Systolic pressure at or above 180 mmHg and diastolic pressure at or above 110 mmHg. Immediate medical attention may be needed, particularly if symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath, confusion, or vision changes occur.
Factors That Can Affect Blood Pressure Readings
Blood pressure can fluctuate due to various factors. To obtain accurate readings, consider the following:
Time of Day: Blood pressure naturally varies throughout the day. It is typically lowest in the morning and rises later in the day. Consistently monitoring at the same time can help track trends.
Activity and Stress Levels: Physical activity, emotional stress, or caffeine intake can temporarily elevate blood pressure. It is best to measure blood pressure when calm and relaxed.
How to Measure Blood Pressure at Home
Regularly checking blood pressure at home provides a clearer picture of long-term trends and helps track any fluctuations. Using the correct technique ensures accurate readings.
Step-by-Step Guide
Prepare for the reading: Sit in a quiet place for at least 5 minutes before measuring. Avoid caffeine, smoking, or exercise 30 minutes prior, as these can temporarily affect blood pressure.
Position the cuff correctly: Wrap the cuff around your upper arm, ensuring it sits at heart level and fits snugly without being too tight.
Sit with proper posture: Keep your feet flat on the ground, rest your back against a chair, and avoid crossing your legs.
Stay still and relaxed: Do not talk or move during the measurement, as this may affect the reading. Breathe normally and remain calm.
Record and track your readings: Write down each reading or use a blood pressure monitor with a memory function to track trends over time.
For consistency, measure blood pressure at the same time each day and take multiple readings if necessary, averaging them for a more accurate assessment.
When to See a Doctor for High Blood Pressure
If blood pressure consistently measures 130/85 mmHg or higher, a medical evaluation may be needed to assess potential risks and discuss lifestyle adjustments. Readings of 140/90 mmHg or higher indicate Grade 1 Hypertension, which may require regular monitoring and medical guidance. For Grade 3 Hypertension (≥180/110 mmHg), urgent medical attention is recommended, especially if accompanied by chest discomfort, severe headache, breathlessness, or vision changes, as this may indicate a medical emergency.
Conclusion
Understanding blood pressure readings allows for better management of cardiovascular health. Knowing what the numbers mean, measuring them correctly, and recognising when medical attention is needed can help with early detection and prevention of complications.
If you have concerns about your blood pressure or need a professional assessment, schedule an appointment with Kaizen Medical today.
