What is "healthy" blood pressure?
Blood pressure is recorded as two numbers: systolic (upper number) and diastolic (lower number). Diastolic blood pressure is when the pressure is at its lowest, while the heart is resting between beats. Hypertension is traditionally defined as systolic and/or diastolic blood pressure more than or equal to 140/90 mm Hg. In most cases, the higher the blood pressure, the stronger the likelihood of serious consequences for the heart, brain or kidneys. There may be some exceptions depending of your state of health. Ask your healthcare professional about your blood pressure.
REFERENCES:
- Poulter N et al. Lancet. 2015;386(9995):801-812.
- World Health Organisation. A global brief on hypertension Silent killer, public health crisis. WHO 2013
- Chow CK, et al. Prevalence, awareness, treatment, and control of hypertension in rural and urban communities in high-, middle-, and low-income countries. JAMA 2013;310:959-68.
- World Health Organisation. A global brief on hypertension Silent killer, public health crisis. WHO 2013