What does a blood pressure reading of 140/90 or higher indicate?

A blood pressure reading of 140/90 or higher indicates hypertension, which is a medical condition characterized by consistently elevated blood pressure levels. Blood pressure is expressed in two numbers: the first (systolic) measures the pressure in the arteries when the heart beats, while the second (diastolic) measures the pressure when the heart is at rest between beats.

Hypertension is typically classified into stages, with the threshold for Stage 1 hypertension starting at 130/80 mmHg, according to the American Heart Association. A reading of 140/90 signifies that the systolic pressure is significantly higher than the normal range (generally considered to be below 120/80 mmHg), indicating that the force of blood against the artery walls is too high, which can lead to serious cardiovascular issues if left unaddressed.

Understanding blood pressure readings is vital for monitoring heart health, as hypertension often has no symptoms but can increase the risk for heart attack, stroke, and other health complications. Therefore, a reading of 140/90 or higher qualifies as hypertension, emphasizing the importance of regular monitoring and potential lifestyle or medical interventions to manage blood pressure effectively.