< 120/80 mm Hg Normal
120/80 to 139/89 mm Hg Prehypertension
140/90 to 159/99 mm Hg Stage 1 hypertension
> 160/100 mm Hg Stage 2 hypertension
Systolic pressure less than 90 mm/Hg or diastolic pressure less than 60 mm/Hg indicates low blood pressure, or hypotension.
You should have your blood pressure checked by a doctor at least every two years. If you know you have hypertension or prehypertension, you should have it measured more frequently. Consult your doctor as to how often.
High blood pressure, or hypertension, is a disease. It can affect anyone at any age, at any activity level. There are no symptoms of high blood pressure; the only way to know you have it is to have your blood pressure checked by a healthcare professional.
Steps to take to lower blood pressure
- Have your blood pressure checked regularly by a healthcare professional.
- Maintain a healthy weight/BMI (body mass index).
- Incorporate more physical activity into your daily routine.
- Eat a diet that is low in salt and saturated fat.
- Don't smoke or use other tobacco products.
- Limit your alcohol consumption.
- Manage stress.
- If you are instructed by your doctor to take blood pressure medication, take it exactly as directed.
- If you are taking medication to lower your blood pressure, do not take cold or flu medicines that contain a decongestant. Decongestants are known to interfere with blood pressure medication.
