Blood pressure is the force of blood pushing against artery walls each time the heart beats.
- Systolic (max): when the heart contracts.
- Diastolic (min): when the heart relaxes.
- Healthy blood pressure is generally below 120/80 mmHg.
When is it high?
Hypertension is diagnosed if readings consistently exceed:
- 140 mmHg systolic
- 90 mmHg diastolic
How to measure at home correctly
Prepare: Don’t eat, smoke, drink coffee/mate, or talk 45 minutes prior. Be calm and empty your bladder.
Posture: Sit with back supported, arm at heart level on a table, legs uncrossed, arm free of tight clothing.
Cuff placement: Hose inside the arm, not too tight/loose, 2 finger widths from elbow crease.
Recording: Take readings morning and night, while seated and resting, for 5–7 consecutive days. Share results with your doctor.
When high readings aren’t emergencies:
After exercise, stress, poor sleep, arguments, or if measured incorrectly — temporary increases are normal.
