Blood pressure is written as two numbers, for example 120/80. The first number is systolic pressure — the force your heart generates when it beats and pushes blood into the arteries. The second is diastolic — the pressure in your arteries between beats, when the heart is at rest.
Current guidelines classify blood pressure into four categories. Normal is below 120/80. Elevated is 120 to 129 systolic with a diastolic below 80. Stage 1 hypertension runs from 130 to 139 systolic or 80 to 89 diastolic. Stage 2 hypertension begins at 140 systolic or 90 diastolic.
High blood pressure is often called a silent condition because it usually causes no symptoms — even at dangerous levels. This is why regular monitoring matters, especially if you have a family history or are above 40.
For home monitoring, take readings at the same time each day, after five minutes of rest, with your arm supported at heart level. Avoid caffeine and exercise for at least thirty minutes beforehand. Record both numbers and take your log to your doctor appointment.
Lifestyle changes that reduce blood pressure include reducing sodium, increasing potassium through fruits and vegetables, limiting alcohol, exercising regularly, and managing sleep. These measures are meaningful but take several weeks to show effect — consistency matters more than intensity.