Dr. Colbert Shares How to Understand Blood Pressure Chart Readings

Blood pressure chart readings are crucial for determining if one’s levels are healthy or require improvement. The American Heart Association recognizes five blood pressure ranges, from normal to hypertensive crisis/emergency. Learning how to read these charts can help you take control of your health.

• Normal: A systolic reading below 120 mm Hg and a diastolic reading below 80 mm Hg falls within the normal range.
• Elevated: If you have a systolic measurement between 120-129 mm Hg and a diastolic measurement less than 80 mm Hg, you fall into this category.
• Hypertension Stage 1: This stage includes systolic measurements ranging from 130-139 mm Hg or diastolic between 80-89 mm Hg. 
• Hypertension Stage 2: Here we find systolics above or equal to 140 mm Hg or diastolic equal to or above 90 mm Hg.
• Hypertensive Crisis/Emergency: A systolic reading of 180 mm Hg or higher and/or a diastolic level of 120 mm Hg or more.