How Do You Rank?

You have high blood pressure if your systolic measurement is greater than 140 and your diastolic measurement is greater than 90.

Stage One, or mild hypertension, reads:

• Systolic 140 to 159
• Diastolic 90 to 99

Stage Two, or moderate hypertension, reads:

• Systolic 160 to 179
• Diastolic 100 to 109

Stage Three, or severe hypertension, reads:

• Systolic greater than 180
  
• Diastolic greater than 110
  

Few tips before or during you get your blood pressure checked:

• Your blood pressure rises and falls easily throughout the day. To be sure you get an accurate reading, here are a few tips to remember:
• Don't drink any coffee or caffeinated beverages for at least thirty minutes before you get your blood pressure
• Don't smoke or drink any alcohol for at least thirty minutes before having your blood pressure taken.
• Sit quietly for several minutes before having your blood pressure checked
• Talking can make your blood pressure rise, so don't talk while you are getting checked

Here are some other factors that can influence your blood pressure:

• Diet
• Environment
• Physical activity
• Medication
• Stress
• Emotional upset

Take your blood pressure at home and keep a log of the readings.