Check Your Blood Pressure Reading
Enter your blood pressure reading numbers to get detailed information about what they mean.
Example: For a reading of 120/80, enter 120 for systolic and 80 for diastolic.
Understanding Your Blood Pressure Reading
What Do These Numbers Mean?
Your blood pressure reading shows how hard your heart is working to pump blood through your body. It's measured with two numbers, like 120/80.
Top Number (Systolic)
This measures the pressure when your heart squeezes to pump blood out. Like water pressure in a garden hose when the tap is turned on full.
Bottom Number (Diastolic)
This shows the pressure when your heart relaxes between beats. Like the remaining pressure in the hose when the water is turned off.
Why Do My Numbers Change?
Your blood pressure isn't fixed - it's dynamic and responds to your daily activities:
- Morning: Often higher as your body wakes up
- Exercise: Naturally rises during activity
- Stress: Can increase temporarily during stressful situations
- Sleep: Usually lowest when you're resting
Pro Tip: Take readings at the same time each day for the most consistent results.
What Can Affect My Reading?
Temporary Influences
- Recent caffeine or alcohol
- Full bladder
- Position of your arm
- Talking during measurement
- Recent physical activity
Lifestyle Factors
- Salt intake
- Sleep quality
- Regular exercise
- Stress management
- Smoking
Getting Accurate Readings
Follow these steps for the most reliable results:
- Sit quietly for 5 minutes before measuring
- Keep your feet flat on the floor
- Rest your arm at heart level on a table
- Don't talk during the reading
- Take 2-3 readings, 1 minute apart
- Record your readings to track changes over time