Know Your Blood Pressure
What the two blood pressure numbers mean, and why high blood pressure is often silent.
Blood pressure is written as two numbers, for example 120/80.
- The first number is the pressure while your heart pushes blood out.
- The second number is the pressure while your heart rests between beats.
Why it matters High blood pressure usually causes no symptoms for years, while it quietly strains the heart, brain, kidneys and eyes. The only way to know your numbers is to have them measured.
Getting a useful reading Sit and rest for five minutes, keep your feet flat, rest your arm at the level of your heart, and do not smoke or drink coffee just before. One high reading is not a diagnosis; readings are repeated on different days.
What helps - Use less salt, and less processed and tinned food - Eat more fruit, vegetables and beans - Walk or move most days - Reduce alcohol, and stop smoking - Take prescribed medicine exactly as directed, even when you feel well
Never stop or change blood pressure medicine on your own. Speak with the professional who prescribed it.
Get medical help straight away for chest pain, difficulty breathing, heavy bleeding, seizures, confusion, a stiff neck with fever, a high fever in a baby, or if you feel your life is in danger.
General health information — not a diagnosis or substitute for professional medical care.