- High blood pressure often has no symptoms, so measuring is the only way to know.
- A reading has two numbers: systolic over diastolic.
- Do not start or stop medication without a doctor’s advice.
The short answer
Blood pressure is the force of blood pushing against the walls of your arteries. When it stays too high, it strains the heart and blood vessels and raises the risk of stroke, heart disease and kidney problems. Because it usually causes no symptoms, many people do not know they have it. A quick check is the simplest way to find out.
What the numbers mean
A reading is written as two numbers, such as 120/80, measured in millimetres of mercury (mmHg). The first number, systolic, is the pressure when the heart beats. The second, diastolic, is the pressure between beats.
| Reading (approximate) | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Below 120/80 | Usually considered normal |
| 120 to 129 over below 80 | Elevated, worth watching |
| 130/80 or higher | High under United States guidelines |
| 140/90 or higher | High under many other guidelines, including most international guidance |
Different countries use slightly different cut-offs, and one high reading does not mean you have a problem. Your doctor decides after repeated readings.
Why you may not feel anything
High blood pressure is sometimes called a silent condition. Some people notice headaches or dizziness, but many feel perfectly fine for years while damage builds up. That is why regular checks matter, especially if you are over 40, have a family history or are living with diabetes or kidney problems.
How to measure it well at home
- Sit quietly for five minutes with your back supported and feet flat on the floor.
- Avoid caffeine, exercise and smoking for 30 minutes before.
- Rest your arm on a table at heart level with the cuff on bare skin.
- Do not talk during the reading.
- Take two readings a minute apart, and write them down with the date and time.
- Take readings at about the same time each day for a week and show the record to your doctor.
Habits that help
- Eat less salt. The World Health Organization recommends under 5 grams of salt a day, roughly a teaspoon. Watch stock cubes, processed meat and snacks.
- Eat more fruit, vegetables and whole foods. See hydration and healthy eating.
- Move regularly. Aim for about 150 minutes of moderate activity a week. walking and simple exercise is a good start.
- Keep a healthy weight as best you can.
- Limit alcohol and avoid tobacco.
- Manage stress and sleep well. See managing stress and sleep and creative work.
Medication and follow-up
Some people need medicine in addition to lifestyle changes. If a doctor prescribes it, take it as directed and do not stop because you feel well. Attend follow-up appointments and ask what your target numbers are. Check with a pharmacist or doctor before using herbal remedies or painkillers, because some can raise blood pressure or interact with medicines.
When to get urgent help
Seek emergency care if a very high reading comes with severe headache, chest pain, shortness of breath, confusion, weakness on one side of the body, trouble speaking or vision changes. Call your local emergency number or go to the nearest hospital. In an emergency, do not wait to take more readings.
Quick checklist
- Check your blood pressure regularly
- Measure at rest, with the correct cuff
- Cut down on salt and processed food
- Stay active and limit alcohol
- Never stop medication without advice
- Seek urgent help for severe symptoms
Key points to remember
Knowing your numbers lets you act early. This guide is general information and not medical advice. Ask a doctor, nurse or pharmacist to check your blood pressure and explain your readings.
