If you're age 40 or older, or you're 18 to 39 with a high risk of high blood pressure, ask for a blood pressure check every year. How often you should get your blood pressure checked depends on your age and overall health.Īsk your provider for a blood pressure reading at least every two years starting at age 18. Seek emergency medical help for anyone with these blood pressure numbers.īlood pressure screening is an important part of general health care. The top number is 140 mm Hg or higher or the bottom number is 90 mm Hg or higher.īlood pressure higher than 180/120 mm Hg is considered a hypertensive emergency or crisis. The top number ranges from 130 to 139 mm Hg or the bottom number is between 80 and 89 mm Hg. The top number ranges from 120 to 129 mm Hg and the bottom number is below, not above, 80 mm Hg. Blood pressure is lower than 120/80 mm Hg. Ideal blood pressure is categorized as normal. The American College of Cardiology and the American Heart Association divide blood pressure into four general categories. In general, hypertension is a blood pressure reading of 130/80 millimeters of mercury (mm Hg) or higher. Some people need medicine to treat high blood pressure.īlood pressure is measured in millimeters of mercury (mm Hg). Healthy lifestyle habits -such as not smoking, exercising and eating well - can help prevent and treat high blood pressure.
It's important to have your blood pressure checked at least every two years starting at age 18. Untreated, high blood pressure increases the risk of heart attack, stroke and other serious health problems. Seek emergency medical help for anyone with these blood pressure numbers.
High blood pressure is a common condition that affects the body's arteries.