Understanding your blood pressure reading
Good blood pressure is possibly the most important factor in cutting your risk of a heart attack, stroke or complications. Find out about what your blood pressure should be.
There are two readings taken to see if your blood pressure is normal, high or low.
Everyone over 40 should have their blood pressure checked at least once every five years, but if you have diabetes or are at high risk of developing type 2 diabetes, checking your blood pressure is a key part of your annual review.
How blood pressure is measured
Your blood pressure can be checked in a number of places including your GP, some chemists, an NHS Health Check or even at work. You can even test your blood pressure at home with a home testing kit.
A stethoscope, pump, arm cuff and dial are often used, but sensors and digital displays can also measure blood pressure.
Your blood pressure is measured in millimetres of mercury (mmHg) and two figures are given:
- Systolic pressure, which is the pressure when your heart pushes blood out.
- Diastolic pressure, which is the pressure when your heart rests between beats.
So a reading of 140/90mmHg means you have a systolic pressure of 140mmHg and a diastolic pressure of 90mmHg.
What your blood pressure should be
An ideal blood pressure is under 140 mmHg (systolic) and 90 mmHg (diastolic). A lower target may be set if you have other health conditions
If your blood pressure is high when it is checked, you should have it checked again. If there is any uncertainty, then you may be asked to check it yourself at home using a digital meter, or set up with an ambulatory blood pressure monitor (meaning you will be fitted with a blood pressure meter that automatically measures blood pressure on a number of occasions over a 24 period). This gives a better idea of your average blood pressure.
High blood pressure, known as hypertension, is diagnosed if your home blood pressure reading are greater than 140/90 on average.
To find out more about how to improve and prevent high blood pressure, see our page here.
