Blood pressure is measured using two numbers: systolic (the pressure in your arteries when your heart beats) and diastolic (the pressure in your arteries when your heart is at rest between beats). Normal blood pressure is generally defined as follows:
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Normal: Systolic less than 120 mm Hg and diastolic less than 80 mm Hg (written as <120/<80 mm Hg)
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Elevated: Systolic 120-129 mm Hg and diastolic less than 80 mm Hg
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Hypertension Stage 1: Systolic 130-139 mm Hg or diastolic 80-89 mm Hg
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Hypertension Stage 2: Systolic 140 mm Hg or higher or diastolic 90 mm Hg or higher
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Hypertensive crisis: Systolic over 180 mm Hg and/or diastolic over 120 mm Hg. This requires immediate medical attention.
It's important to consult a healthcare professional for accurate diagnosis and management if you have concerns about your blood pressure. Regular monitoring and understanding of what blood pressure readings mean can help in maintaining good health.