Some people buy their own blood pressure monitor to use at home. If this is a problem, the doctor may get you to do blood pressure readings at home or order a 24-hour monitor to help confirm you have high blood pressure.

Sometimes people's blood pressure goes up because they're worried about having it taken by the nurse or doctor. You have hypertension if your blood pressure stays high for three separate readings, on three separate occasions, over at least three months. The clinical term for this is hypertension.Ī single high blood pressure reading doesn't necessarily mean you have hypertension. High blood pressure is when your blood pressure is regularly higher than recommended levels. What is high blood pressure (hypertension)? If you’re already on high blood pressure medication, your ideal blood pressure will be 130/80 or below. However, the blood pressure that is 'ideal' for you depends on many factors, including your overall risk of heart attack and stroke.

What is a normal blood pressure reading?įor most people an ideal blood pressure is 120/75, or lower. You may also choose to have a blood pressure monitor at home. You can get a blood pressure reading at your GP practice and at most local pharmacies. The second (bottom) number is when your heart relaxes (diastolic pressure).ĭuring a blood pressure test, a blood pressure cuff is wrapped around your arm so a blood pressure monitor can measure your systolic and diastolic blood pressure. The first (top) number is the pressure when your heart beats (systolic pressure). At the end, the machine will give a blood pressure reading.īlood pressure is measured in millimetres of mercury (which is written as mmHg).Ī blood pressure reading contains two numbers and will be written as a figure like 120/75 (this is said as '120 over 75'.) When the machine is switched on the cuff tightens and then slowly loosens again. This cuff is attached to a machine which measures the pressure inside your arteries. Blood pressure is measured using a machine called a blood pressure monitor.Ī cuff (thick band) is put over your arm.

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