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When it comes to blood pressure, the upper number is the most important in predicting future cardiovascular problems. But in young adults, the bottom number may help too, a new study finds.
While both numbers in a blood pressure reading are essential for diagnosing and treating high blood pressure, doctors primarily focus on the top number (systolic pressure), as a higher number carries a greater risk of heart attack and stroke.
Which number is more important? A higher systolic or diastolic reading may be used to diagnose high blood pressure. But the systolic blood pressure tells more about risk factors for heart disease for people over 50.
This blood pressure chart can help you figure out if your blood pressure is at a healthy level. It also can help you understand if you need to take some steps to improve your numbers. Blood pressure is measured in millimeters of mercury (mm Hg).
As it turns out, both systolic and diastolic blood pressure are important. Per the most recent guidelines, you have what's called elevated blood pressure if your systolic blood pressure reading is 120 to 129 mm Hg (which stands for millimeters of mercury).
When it comes to measuring high blood pressure (hypertension), many wonder whether the number on top (systolic) is more important than the number on the bottom (diastolic). Typically, systolic blood pressure is given more attention as a risk factor for heart disease.
Stage I: hypertension: 80-89. Stage II: hypertension: 90 or more. Hypertensive crisis: 120 or more. Call 911. Our chart below has more details. Even if your diastolic number is normal...
The number above (120) is called the systolic blood pressure and the number below (80) is called the diastolic blood pressure. Though both readings are important, many doctors believe that systolic blood pressure is a better predictor of complications of hypertension, such as heart disease or stroke.
An ideal blood pressure is less than 120 mm Hg systolic and less than 80 mm Hg diastolic. Every second that passes by, your heart works hard to keep you alive.
Which blood pressure number is more important? Your healthcare provider can use the top or bottom number to diagnose you with high blood pressure. However, they usually focus more on the top number as a risk factor for heart disease if you’re older than 50.