What is considered high blood pressure?

High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, is a condition in which the force of the blood against the artery walls is consistently too high. The measurement of blood pressure is given in millimeters of mercury (mmHg) and is represented by two numbers: the systolic pressure (the pressure in your arteries when your heart beats) over the diastolic pressure (the pressure in your arteries when your heart rests between beats).

According to most current clinical guidelines, a reading of 140/90 mmHg or higher is classified as high blood pressure. This threshold indicates that the individual is at increased risk for cardiovascular diseases and other health issues, necessitating monitoring and potential lifestyle changes or interventions.

Blood pressure readings lower than this, such as 130/80 mmHg, 120/70 mmHg, and 110/60 mmHg, fall within normal ranges or are considered to be indicative of healthy blood pressure levels. Thus, while 140/90 mmHg or higher represents a significant concern for health risks, lower figures reflect better control of blood pressure.