Measuring Blood Pressure Test
A blood pressure measurement checks the force of blood pushing against your artery walls as your heart pumps. It helps diagnose high blood pressure (hypertension) or low blood pressure (hypotension).
What this test measures
Each time your heart beats, it pumps blood into your arteries. A blood pressure measurement measures the force (pressure) in your arteries as your heart pumps. It gives two numbers: systolic pressure (pressure when the heart beats) and diastolic pressure (pressure when the heart rests between beats).
What your results mean
Reference ranges vary by laboratory and by your age and sex. MedlinePlus does not publish a single normal range for this test — always read your result against the range printed on your own lab report and discuss it with your provider.
Higher-than-normal results
A high blood pressure reading may indicate hypertension. According to the source, categories include elevated (systolic 120-129 and diastolic less than 80), stage 1 (systolic 130-139 or diastolic 80-89), stage 2 (systolic 140 or higher or diastolic 90 or higher), and hypertensive crisis (systolic over 180 and diastolic over 120), which requires immediate medical care.
Lower-than-normal results
A blood pressure reading of 90 systolic, 60 diastolic (90/60 mmHg) or lower is considered abnormal and may indicate hypotension. Symptoms can include dizziness, nausea, cold skin, fainting, and weakness.
Frequently asked questions
What do the two numbers in a blood pressure reading mean?
The top number (systolic) measures pressure in your arteries when your heart beats. The bottom number (diastolic) measures pressure when your heart rests between beats.
How is high blood pressure diagnosed?
Your provider usually diagnoses high blood pressure if you have two or more high readings on different days. They also consider your medical history and other factors.
What is a hypertensive crisis?
A hypertensive crisis is a dangerously high blood pressure reading (higher than 180/120 mmHg). Seek medical care right away if you have this reading.
Can I measure my blood pressure at home?
Yes. Use an upper arm cuff that fits snugly. Rest for about 5 minutes before measuring, sit up straight with feet flat, and take it at the same time each day.
What are symptoms of low blood pressure?
Symptoms include dizziness, nausea, cold sweaty skin, pale skin, fainting, and weakness. A reading of 90/60 mmHg or lower is considered abnormal.
Related lab tests
Sources
- MedlinePlus: Measuring Blood Pressure — NIH MedlinePlus
Last updated . Information is aggregated from official public sources and is not a substitute for professional medical care.