What is high blood pressure?

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Blood pressure categories in the 2017 AHA/ ACC guidelines are:

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• Normal: Less than 120/80 mm Hg.

• Elevated: Systolic between 120-129 and diastolic less than 80.

• Stage 1: Systolic between 130-139 or diastolic between 80-89.

• Stage 2: Systolic at least 140 or diastolic at least 90 mm Hg.

• Hypertensive crisis: Systolic over 180 and/or diastolic over 120, with patients needing prompt changes in medication if there are no other indications of problems, or immediate hospitalization if there are signs of organ damage.

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How do I know if I have Hypertension?

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Hypertension is diagnosed by measuring blood pressures at regular intervals. If your blood pressure is found to be high at your doctor's office, you may be asked to confirm the results by checking your blood pressure yourself at home. In many instances, a patient's blood pressure temporarily rises when it is measured by a physician, nurse, or other healthcare professional in an examination room. Doctors use both types of readings (office and home) when determining whether someone has high blood pressure.

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​We can help get your blood pressure under control!

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