BLOOD PRESSURE STANDARD
The table below contains defined levels for hypertension that are
publicly available from the National Heart Lung and Blood Institute
at the U.S. National Institutes of Health (NIH)
(http://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/dci/Diseases/Hbp/HBP_WhatIs.
html). Users can compare their own blood pressure readings
against these defined levels to determine if they may be potentially
at increased risk.
This table is applicable to most adults aged 18 and older.
Blood pressure tends to go up and down, even in people who
normally don’t have high readings. If your numbers stay above the
“normal” range most of the time, you may be at increased risk and
should consult your physician.
Please note that any muscle movement during inflation will cause
measurement error. When measurement is complete, the monitor will
display your systolic pressure, diastolic pressure, and pulse readings.
The monitor automatically finds where your measurement results
fall on the NIH’s National Heart Lung and Blood Institute’s table and
provides a cue if your reading falls into one of the stages that could
potentially indicate increased risk. See page 21 for more information
on this feature.
Category
Systolic (mmHg)
Diastolic (mmHg)
Normal
Less than 120
and Less than 80
Prehypertension
120-139
or
80-89
High Blood Pressure
Stage 1
140-159
or
90-99
Stage 2
160 or higher
or
100 or higher
6
5
ABOUT BLOOD PRESSURE
What is Blood Pressure?
Blood pressure is the pressure exerted on the artery walls while blood
flows through the arteries. The pressure measured when the heart
contracts and sends blood out of the heart is systolic (highest) blood
pressure. The pressure measured when the heart dilates with blood
flowing back into the heart is called diastolic (lowest) blood pressure.
Why Measure Your Blood Pressure?
Among today’s various health problems, those associated with high
blood pressure are very common. High blood pressure dangerously
correlates with cardiovascular diseases. Therefore, blood pressure
monitoring is important for identifying those at risk.
Why Do My Readings Vary?
Blood pressure is a body parameter that is subject to normal variations
throughout the day. A single reading that is different from yours or your
doctor’s readings are not necessarily inaccurate. The average of several
readings, taken under similar conditions, using the same arm is preferred
for accurate blood pressure readings.
Why Are My Readings Different Than Those Taken
at My Doctor's Office?
Many experience a phenomenon called “White Coat Hypertension” when
measured by a doctor. White Coat Hypertension refers to blood pressure
that rises above its usual level when measured in a clinical setting, such
as a doctor's office.
