What Is a Good Blood Pressure?

Many people wonder, "What is a good blood pressure?" A good blood pressure reading is one that is neither too high nor too low. In most cases, a blood pressure reading under 120/80 is considered good.

 

What Is a Good Blood Pressure? -- An Overview

Blood pressure is the amount of force that blood puts on the walls of the blood vessels as it passes through them. Most medical professionals agree that a good blood pressure reading for most people would be under 120/80; however, blood pressure can also be too low.
 

Blood Pressure: Understanding What the Numbers Mean

Getting a
 blood pressure reading is painless and quick. To take a blood pressure reading, your doctor or nurse will probably use a sphygmomanometer (a long name for a familiar device).
 
The two numbers that measure your blood pressure are written like a fraction: one number on top and one on the bottom. The top number in a blood pressure reading refers to the systolic pressure. It measures the pressure inside your blood vessels at the moment your heart beats. The bottom number represents your diastolic pressure. It measures the pressure in your blood vessels when your heart is resting between heartbeats.
 
A good blood pressure for most people will be under 120/80, as most people with blood pressure problems have high blood pressure. However, extreme low blood pressure can also be a serious health concern.
 
Click on page 2 to see a table that outlines both good and bad blood pressure numbers.
 
(What Is a Good Blood Pressure? Continued: Page 2)
Add this article to your Favorites     Email this article     Print
Written by/reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD