What is normal?

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Normal blood pressure readings explained

Normal blood pressure readings explained


Ideal blood pressure is to have a blood pressure that is at or below 120 over 80 (120/80). At this level, you have a much lower risk of heart disease or stroke.

If your blood pressure is ideal, this is great news. By following our healthy living advice, you will be able to keep it this way.

Normal blood pressure is having a blood pressure reading that is above 120 over 80(120/80), but below 140 over 90 (140/90). If your blood pressure is within this range, you should be taking steps to bring it down, or to stop it rising any further. Our five top tips will show you how.

The reason why people with normal blood pressure readings should lower it is that the higher your blood pressure, the higher your risk of health problems. For example, a blood pressure level of 135 over 85 (135/85) may be “normal” but someone with this reading is twice as likely to have a heart attack or stroke as someone with a reading of 115 over 75 (115/75).


What blood pressure readings mean


How you can prevent high blood pressure

This booklet is for people who do not have high blood pressure yet, but who may be worried about their blood pressure. It gives you practical information on the steps you can take to keep your blood pressure healthy to lower your risk of stroke and heart disease.

How you can prevent high blood pressure (827.16 Kb)


More on blood pressure:

High blood pressure

Low blood pressure

How to lower your blood pressure:
 
#1 Eat less salt

Find and avoid hidden salt in everyday foods

How to eat less salt

#2 Eat more fruit and veg

Eat your way to lower blood pressure

How to eat more fruit and vegetables

#3 Stick to alcohol limits

Don't let your drinks get the better of your blood pressure

How alcohol affects blood pressure

#4 Cut down on fats

High cholesterol raises your heart disease risk. Here's how to avoid it

How to cut out fat

#5 Get active

Walk your way to naturally lower blood pressure

Get active

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Fighting high blood pressure to beat stroke and heart disease

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