What is considered normal blood pressure according to the American Heart Association?

Normal blood pressure, as defined by the American Heart Association, is less than 120/80 mm Hg.

What are the stages of high blood pressure (hypertension)?

Hypertension stages include Elevated (120-129/ =140/>=90), and Hypertensive Crisis (>180/ >120).

What are the symptoms of low blood pressure (hypotension)?

Symptoms of hypotension can include dizziness, lightheadedness, fainting, and blurred vision.

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Know Your Numbers: Understanding Blood Pressure

21 Jan

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Summary

Normal blood pressure is less than 120/80 mm Hg.
Hypertension has stages: Elevated, Stage 1, Stage 2, and crisis.
Hypotension below 90/60 mm Hg can cause dizziness or fainting.

Know Your Numbers: Understanding Blood Pressure

Blood pressure, a vital sign for heart health, measures the force of blood against artery walls. It's recorded as systolic (heart contracting) over diastolic (heart resting) in mm Hg. The American Heart Association defines normal blood pressure as less than 120/80 mm Hg, a range associated with reduced risks of heart attack, stroke, and kidney disease.

High blood pressure, or hypertension, is classified into stages: elevated (120-129/ <80), Stage 1 (130-139/80-89), Stage 2 (>=140/>=90), and a hypertensive crisis (>180/ >120), which requires emergency care. Persistent high BP strains the heart and blood vessels, increasing risks.

Conversely, low blood pressure, or hypotension, generally below 90/60 mm Hg, can cause symptoms like dizziness, fainting, or blurred vision if blood flow to vital organs is compromised. While some people naturally have low BP without symptoms, it can sometimes indicate serious underlying conditions.