What Is the Meaning of the Range on a Blood Pressure Cuff?
Your blood pressure reading consists of two numbers, which represent the systolic blood pressure and the diastolic blood pressure. These numbers are measured in millimeters of mercury (mm Hg).
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Systolic Pressure
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The systolic pressure reading is the first number in the reading. This represents blood flow when the heart contracts.
Diastolic Pressure
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The diastolic pressure is the second number in the reading. It represents blood flow when the heart relaxes.
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Blood Pressure Range
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A normal blood pressure reading is considered to be lower than 120/80. A higher reading indicates mild or high blood pressure.
Low Blood Pressure
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Low blood pressure (hypotension) varies from person to person. Low blood pressure occurs when your blood pressure reading is lower than 120/80 and symptoms of dizziness and/or fainting occur.
Mild Blood Pressure
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Mild blood pressure (prehypertension) occurs when you get a blood pressure reading of between 120/80 and 139/89. Prehypertension puts you at risk for developing high blood pressure.
High Blood Pressure
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High blood pressure (hypertension) occurs when you get a blood pressure reading that is greater than 139/89. High blood pressure can cause damage to your arteries and lead to heart disease or stroke.
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