Any visit to a physician's office usually includes a blood pressure reading. For many people, when the cuff comes off and the nurse or doctor states a number, the first response is, "Is that good?"
"Whether you monitor your blood pressure at home or at the doctor's office, understanding what the numbers are telling you is key to managing your health," said Shreya Ghetiya, MD, a cardiologist with Baptist Heart Specialists. "Based on your blood pressure, lifestyle and other health factors, you and your doctor can work together to determine the right care plan for you."
Blood pressure: What's in a number?
Systolic blood pressure (the first number): The pressure your blood is exerting against your artery walls when the heart beats.
Diastolic blood pressure (the second number): The pressure your blood is exerting against your artery walls while the heart is resting between beats.
An elevated systolic or diastolic reading could indicate high blood pressure (hypertension).
Your primary care physician or cardiologist can help you understand your numbers and determine the best treatment for you.
Red Light Stage
Hypertensive Crisis (consult your doctor immediately)
Systolic mm Hg (upper number) - higher than 180 (and/or)
Diastolic mm Hg (lower number) - higher than 120
High Blood Pressure Stage 2
Systolic mm Hg (upper number) - 140 or higher (or)
Diastolic mm Hg (lower number) - 90 or higher
High Blood Pressure Stage 1
Systolic mm Hg (upper number) - 130 - 139 (or)
Diastolic mm Hg (lower number) - 80-89
Yellow Light Stage
Elevated
Systolic mm Hg (upper number) - 120 - 190 (and)
Diastolic mm Hg (lower number) - less than 80
Green Light Stage
Normal
Systolic mm Hg (upper number) - less than 120 (and)
Diastolic mm Hg (lower number) - less than 80
Have questions about your blood pressure?
Your primary care physician is an important ally in your medical care, including monitoring your blood pressure. Baptist Primary Care has locations across the Jacksonville area so you can find care close to you. Use the Find a Doctor tool to search for a provider or schedule an appointment online.
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