When you hear your blood pressure numbers, do they feel like a mystery? Don’t worry; you’re not alone. Many people don’t fully understand what those two numbers mean or how important they are for your health. Knowing what your blood pressure reading means is a big step toward you staying healthy and preventing complications down the road.
What is blood pressure
Blood pressure is the force of your blood pushing against the walls of your blood vessels. This happens as your heart pumps. It is important because it keeps blood flowing to bring oxygen and nutrients to your body. But, if the pressure stays too high or too low, it can cause health problems.
When your blood pressure is measured, you will get two numbers. These numbers tell us two things about how your heart is working:
- Top number (systolic pressure): This measures the pressure in your arteries when your heart beats.
- Bottom number (diastolic pressure): This measures the pressure in your arteries when your heart rests between beats.
What the numbers mean
Blood pressure numbers are grouped into categories:
- Normal: Less than 120/80 mmHg
- Elevated: Top number is 120-129 mmHg, but the bottom number is less than 80 mmHg
- Hypertension Stage 1: Top number is 130-139 mmHg OR bottom number is 80-89 mmHg
- Hypertension Stage 2: Top number is 140 mmHg or higher OR bottom number is 90 mmHg or higher
- Hypertensive Crisis (emergency): Top number is over 180 mmHg AND/OR bottom number is over 120 mmHg
If your numbers are not in the normal range, you should pay attention. Talk with your doctor or advanced practice provider* (APP) about what steps you can take to get your numbers into the normal range.
What happens when your blood pressure is too high
According to the CDC, nearly half of all adults in the United States have high blood pressure, also known as hypertension. Even more concerning, about 1 in 5 people have high blood pressure without knowing it.
High blood pressure is often called a “silent killer.” This is because it usually has no symptoms. Over time, high pressure puts stress on your heart and hurts your blood vessels. This raises your chance of serious problems like:
- Heart disease: High blood pressure is a top cause of heart attacks and heart failure.
- Stroke: High pressure can hurt blood vessels in the brain, leading to strokes.
- Kidney damage: High blood pressure can stop your kidneys from working well.
- Eye problems: High blood pressure can hurt the tiny blood vessels in your eyes. This can cause vision loss.
Managing high blood pressure often starts with lifestyle changes, like eating healthy foods (especially ones low in salt), staying active, managing stress, and quitting smoking. Sometimes, these changes aren’t enough on their own, and your doctor or APP may recommend medications to help. Together, lifestyle habits and medications can work to keep your blood pressure in a safer range and protect your health.
What happens when your blood pressure is too low
Low blood pressure (hypotension) is not as common as high blood pressure, but it can still be an issue. Blood pressure is considered low when it is below 90/60 mmHg. Unlike high blood pressure, low blood pressure often has clear signs. You might feel dizzy, faint, tired or have blurry vision.
Very low blood pressure can stop blood from reaching your brain and other organs. This can happen if you are dehydrated, take certain medicines, or have other health issues. If you have symptoms of the above symptoms for low blood pressure, immediately talk with your doctor or APP.
Treating low blood pressure often depends on what’s causing it. Simple changes like drinking more water, eating small meals throughout the day, and adding more salt to your diet (if your doctor or APP says it’s okay) can help. If your blood pressure drops when you stand up, wearing compression socks might make a difference. For some people, medications or treating an underlying health problem may be needed. Your doctor or APP will work with you to find the best plan to help raise your blood pressure and keep you feeling better.
Your blood pressure is a vital sign of your heart health. That is why understanding your blood pressure numbers and working to keep them in check can make a big difference in your overall health. Talk to your doctor or APP about getting regular blood pressure checks, and don’t hesitate to make changes like eating better and staying active. Keeping your blood pressure in a healthy range can help you live a better life and help stop serious health issues from developing.
* An advanced practice provider includes a nurse practitioner or physician assistant.