Blood pressure is a reading used in the medical field to determine the risk of certain diseases and conditions. Optimum blood pressure levels don't necessarily guarantee perfect health, but high blood pressure levels are often underlying factors in the development of certain cardiovascular conditions.
Identification
Blood pressure is comprised of two numbers that let us know the amount of pressure within the arteries.
Systolic and Diastolic
Systolic pressure, the top number, refers to pressure during contraction of the heart. Diastolic pressure, the bottom number, tells us the pressure between beats.
Optimum Systolic Levels
The American Heart Association (AHA) states that optimum systolic pressure for an adult should be at or slightly below 120 mmHg.
Optimum Diastolic Levels
According to the AHA, diastolic pressure for an adult should be at or slightly below 80 mmHg.
Hypertension
Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is classified in an adult as 140/90 mmHg. Consult your doctor if you are hypertensive or close to it.
