Do you know your blood pressure numbers? Many people don’t—and that could be dangerous. According to the National Centers for Health Statistics, nearly 48% of U.S. adults have high blood pressure, yet 41% remain unaware of their condition.
High blood pressure, or hypertension, is often called a “silent killer” because it typically shows no symptoms while quietly damaging blood vessels. Left unchecked, it can lead to severe health problems like heart attacks, strokes, and kidney disease.
What is Normal Blood Pressure?
Blood pressure is measured in millimeters of mercury (mmHg) and consists of two numbers:
Systolic pressure (top number): Pressure in your blood vessels when the heart beats.
Diastolic pressure (bottom number): Pressure when the heart rests between beats.
According to the American College of Cardiology, normal blood pressure is defined as being below 120/80 mmHg.
Elevated or Stage 1 Hypertension:
Elevated blood pressure: Systolic between 120-129 and diastolic below 80.
Stage 1 hypertension: Systolic between 130-139 or diastolic between 80-89.
If your readings fall within these ranges, medication may not be the first step. Instead, healthcare providers often recommend lifestyle-based interventions to manage and lower blood pressure naturally.
Lifestyle Changes to Manage Blood Pressure
Adopting healthy habits can significantly improve your numbers. From dietary adjustments and regular exercise to stress management, making these changes can help you take control of your blood pressure without the immediate need for medication.
Taking charge of your health begins with understanding your numbers and making informed choices to protect your heart and overall well-being.