What should your blood pressure level be?

A normal blood pressure reading is considered to be between 90/60 mmHg (millimeters of mercury) and 120/80 mmHg.

- The first number, systolic pressure, measures the pressure in the arteries when the heart beats.

- The second number, diastolic pressure, measures the pressure in the arteries when the heart rests between beats.

Blood pressure is classified as follows:

* Normal: Below 120/80 mmHg

* Elevated: Between 120/80 mmHg and 129/80 mmHg

* Hypertension (high blood pressure): 130/80 mmHg or higher

Factors that can affect blood pressure include:

- Age

- Sex

- Race

- Weight

- Diet

- Exercise

- Smoking

- Alcohol intake

- Stress

- Certain medical conditions

It is important to have your blood pressure checked regularly, especially if you are at risk for high blood pressure. If you have high blood pressure, there are a number of lifestyle changes you can make to lower your pressure and reduce your risk of complications.