High blood pressure (hypertension)
It's normal for blood pressure to go up and down throughout the day. But if it stays up, you have high blood pressure. For diagnosis, the top number may be 130 to 140 or higher. The bottom number may be 80 to 90 or higher.
High blood pressure increases the risk of stroke, heart attack, and other problems. You and your doctor will talk about your risks of these problems based on your blood pressure.
Your doctor will give you a goal for your blood pressure. Your goal will be based on your health and your age.
High blood pressure is also called hypertension. It can be managed with lifestyle changes and medicines.
Current as of: June 24, 2023
Author: Healthwise Staff
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Rabi DM, et al. (2020). Hypertension Canada's 2020 comprehensive guidelines for the prevention, diagnosis, risk assessment, and treatment of hypertension in adults and children. Canadian Journal of Cardiology, 36(5): 596–624. DOI: 10.1016/j.cjca.2020.02.086. Accessed August 02, 2021.
