Understanding Your Blood Pressure Readings

High blood pressure is one of the most common health problems in India, and many people do not know they have it. Because it rarely causes symptoms, regular checks are the only reliable way to find out.

What the two numbers mean

A blood pressure reading is written as two numbers, for example 120/80 mmHg.

• The top number is the systolic pressure, the pressure in your arteries when your heart beats
• The bottom number is the diastolic pressure, the pressure when your heart rests between beats

Both numbers matter. A raised value in either one can increase the risk of heart attack, stroke and kidney damage over time.

General ranges for adults

Different guidelines use slightly different cut-offs, but a commonly used guide is:

• Normal: below 120/80
• Elevated or high-normal: around 120 to 139 systolic, or 80 to 89 diastolic
• High blood pressure (hypertension): 140/90 or above on repeated readings
• Very high: 180/120 or above, which needs urgent medical attention

A single high reading does not mean you have hypertension. Doctors usually confirm it with several readings taken on different days. Your doctor may set a lower target for you if you have diabetes, kidney disease or heart disease.

How to measure correctly at home

Home monitoring gives a truer picture than an occasional clinic reading, since some people get nervous at the doctor's office. Use a validated automatic upper-arm monitor rather than a wrist device where possible.

• Avoid tea, coffee, smoking and exercise for 30 minutes before measuring
• Empty your bladder and sit quietly for five minutes
• Sit with your back supported, feet flat on the floor and legs uncrossed
• Rest your arm on a table so the cuff is at heart level
• Use the right cuff size, as a small cuff can give falsely high readings
• Do not talk during the measurement
• Take two readings one minute apart and note both

Measure at the same times each day, such as morning before medicines and evening before dinner, and keep a record to show your doctor.

Low blood pressure

Readings below about 90/60 may be low. This is not always a problem, but if you feel dizzy, faint or very tired, or if you notice this after starting a new medicine, speak to your doctor.

Everyday habits that help

Lifestyle changes can lower blood pressure, and often help medicines work better.

• Reduce salt by cutting down on pickles, papad, chips, processed foods and extra salt at the table
• Eat more vegetables, fruits, pulses and whole grains
• Stay active with at least 30 minutes of walking on most days
• Maintain a healthy weight and waist size
• Limit alcohol and stop smoking or chewing tobacco
• Manage stress and get enough sleep

When to seek help urgently

Go to the nearest emergency department if a high reading comes with chest pain, breathlessness, severe headache, confusion, weakness on one side of the body, difficulty speaking or vision changes.

Keep taking your medicines

If you have been prescribed BP tablets, take them daily even when you feel well. Do not stop them suddenly or change the dose without advice. Please consult your doctor to understand your personal target and how often you should check your readings.