The two numbers
Blood pressure is written as two numbers, such as 120/80 mmHg. The top number (systolic) is the pressure when your heart beats. The bottom number (diastolic) is the pressure when your heart rests between beats.
What is considered healthy
For most adults, a reading below 120/80 is considered normal. Readings that stay at 130/80 or higher on several occasions may indicate high blood pressure. A single high reading is not a diagnosis, because blood pressure naturally changes through the day.
Measuring at home
Sit quietly for five minutes, keep your feet flat and your arm supported at heart level. Avoid caffeine, smoking and exercise for 30 minutes before. Take two readings a minute apart and write down both.
When to speak to a doctor
Book an appointment if your home readings are often above 130/80. Seek urgent care if a reading is very high and you also have chest pain, severe headache, confusion or vision changes.
Trusted sources
- World Health Organization (who.int)
- Indian Council of Medical Research (icmr.gov.in)
- Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India (mohfw.gov.in)