Understanding Blood Pressure Levels

We have all had our blood pressure taken and we know that there are different blood pressure levels, but what does it really all mean? When you stop by the pharmacy and you take your blood pressure while you wait, do you know what the results mean? Would you know when to get help you needed it? Many people know what their blood pressure levels are but they don’t know what it means or what they can even do about it. If your doctor talks with you about your blood pressure, you should take the time to listen and follow through on any advice, it could save your life!

Blood Pressure Levels Have Significance

Different blood pressure levels mean different things. When a doctor takes your blood pressure they know at a glance whether your blood pressure is healthy or not, do you? There are unhealthy ranges and healthy ranges and very little area in between. Luckily, the numbers are quite straight forward for adults.

Blood Pressure Levels by Range

Normal: Less than 120 for Systolic and less than 80 for diastolic

Pre-hypertension: 120-139 Systolic and 80-89 for diastolic

Hypertension Stage 1: 140-150 Systolic and 90-99 diastolic

Hypertension Stage 2: 160 or higher Systolic and 100 or higher for diastolic

If you have high blood pressure when you visit your doctor he or she may require that you use a home monitoring device. This will help the doctor to determine whether you are experiencing true high blood pressure, or the white coat effect. The white coat effect is common and it is simply the increase in blood pressure in a clinical setting.

Controlling Blood Pressure Levels

You can control your high blood pressure through a variety of means. Many people are able to control their high blood pressure through a diet that is low in sodium and involves a lot of fruits, vegetables, and nuts. Other people find that a combination of the right foods and exercise will do the trick while others still have to take medications to control their blood pressure levels. Understanding where your blood pressure levels are and how you can control them is important, especially if you have been diagnosed with high blood pressure. Most people don’t pay much attention to their high blood pressure levels, but it is not something to simply dismiss. Adults should have their blood pressure levels measured every two years to keep levels in check and to avoid the sometimes serious consequences that are associated with high blood pressure.