What is High Blood Pressure?
High blood pressure (hypertension) is when your blood pressure is consistently too high, putting extra strain on your heart and blood vessels.
Read MoreBlood Pressure Answers
Quick, reliable information to understand and manage your blood pressure
Explore Top TopicsUnderstanding Blood Pressure
Blood pressure is the force of blood pushing against the walls of your arteries as your heart pumps blood. It's an important vital sign that provides insight into your overall health.
Understanding Low Blood Pressure
Low blood pressure (hypotension) occurs when blood flows through your blood vessels at lower than normal pressures.
Read MoreHow to Measure Blood Pressure
Learn the proper techniques for measuring your blood pressure at home and what the numbers mean for your health.
Read MoreBlood Pressure Numbers: What Do They Mean?
Blood pressure is measured using two numbers:
Systolic Pressure
The first (upper) number measures the pressure in your arteries when your heart beats (contracts). This is when the heart is pumping blood.
Diastolic Pressure
The second (lower) number measures the pressure in your arteries when your heart rests between beats. This is when the heart is filling with blood.
Blood Pressure Categories
- Normal: Less than 120/80 mm Hg
- Elevated: Systolic between 120-129 and diastolic less than 80
- Stage 1 Hypertension: Systolic between 130-139 or diastolic between 80-89
- Stage 2 Hypertension: Systolic 140 or higher or diastolic 90 or higher
- Hypertensive Crisis: Systolic higher than 180 and/or diastolic higher than 120