The European Society of Hypertension (ESH) statement aims to summarise essential recommendations for BP measurements for clinical practice in and out of the office.
Table for classifying blood pressure values (mmHg) according to European Society of Hypertension (ESH):

Optimal blood pressure: lower than 120 (systolic), lower than 80 (diastolic)
Normal blood pressure: lower than 130 (systolic), lower than 85 (diastolic)
High normal blood pressure: 130-139 (systolic), 85-89 (diastolic) - consult the doctor
Grade 1: mild hypertension: 140-159 (systolic), 90-99 (diastolic) - consult the doctor
Grade 2: moderate hypertension: 160-179 (systolic), 100-109 (diastolic) - contact the doctor immediately
Grade 3: severe hypertension: higher or equal to 180 (systolic), higher or equal to 110 (diastolic) - urgently seek for a medical help

NOTE: Show the measured values to your doctor. Never use the results of your measurements to change the doses of drugs prescribed by your doctor.

Both systolic and diastolic blood pressure matter. For those over the age of 50, typically systolic blood pressure is given more weight as a major cardiovascular risk factor. This is because the systolic blood pressure will generally rise with ageas arteries naturally stiffen and as a result of long-term plaque build up.

Check out the general recommendations for blood pressure measurement at home and follow us on Instagram and Facebook and keep your blood pressure under control!