Blood Pressure Numbers

There are two blood pressure numbers that make up a blood pressure reading. These numbers are written like a fraction -- the top blood pressure number refers to systolic blood pressure (while the heart is beating), and the bottom number measures the diastolic blood pressure (while the heart is at rest). Normal blood pressure numbers range from 90/60 to 120/80.

 

What Do Blood Pressure Numbers Mean?

The two numbers that measure your
 blood pressure are written like a fraction: one number on top and one on the bottom -- for example, 128/82. The number on top is called the "systolic pressure." Systolic blood pressure measures the pressure inside your blood vessels at the moment your heart beats. The blood pressure number on the bottom is your diastolic pressure. Diastolic blood pressure measures the pressure in your blood vessels between heartbeats, when your heart is resting.
 
Because your blood pressure changes so often throughout the day, it is best to use more than one reading to figure out your average blood pressure numbers. This is because, from day to day, a person's blood pressure usually fluctuates within a certain range. Posture, exercise, tension, and nicotine use are a few things that can make a person's blood pressure change within a few minutes. Blood pressure can also run high or low in families. When comparing your blood pressure numbers to what's considered "normal," it's important to look at your:
 
  • Family history
  • Overall health
  • Diet
  • Lifestyle.
     
(Blood Pressure Numbers Continued: Page 2)
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Written by/reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD