Understanding your blood pressure numbers

A blood pressure reading is written as two numbers, for example 120/80. The first is systolic pressure, the force in your arteries when the heart beats. The second is diastolic pressure, the force between beats.

What the ranges mean

Below 120/80 is considered normal. Consistent readings above 140/90 usually indicate hypertension and should be assessed by a doctor. A single high reading is not a diagnosis, so we normally repeat the measurement on separate visits.

Lowering a high reading

Reducing salt, staying active, limiting alcohol and managing stress all help. Where lifestyle changes are not enough, effective and affordable medication is available.