Blood pressure readings have two numbers. The top reading is your systolic number, which is the pressure in your blood vessels when your heart contracts. The bottom reading is your diastolic number, which measures pressure in your arteries when your heart relaxes between beats.
The two numbers together will show whether your blood pressure is healthy or unhealthy. A high systolic (140 and over) or diastolic (90 and over) can count as high blood pressure. But the numbers may also be different for adults, children, and pregnant women.
Healthy blood pressure in adults is a reading below 120 systolic or 80 diastolic. Blood pressure between 120/80 to 140/90 is normal. But if it’s on the higher end, it may also be a sign of pre-hypertension.
Pre-hypertension means you have a greater risk of developing blood pressure later on. Your doctor may suggest eating less salt or living a more active lifestyle.