High blood pressure often has no symptoms
The only reliable way to know is to measure your blood pressure with a cuff
A normal reading is usually below 120/80 mmHg
High blood pressure is usually 130/80 mmHg or higher
Repeated readings taken on different days matter more than one reading
Home readings should be taken after resting quietly for 5 minutes
Use the correct cuff size and arm position for accurate results
You may have high blood pressure if a doctor or pharmacist has told you so
Seek urgent care if you have chest pain, severe headache, shortness of breath, vision changes, weakness, or confusion with a very high reading
The best next step is to check your blood pressure at home, a pharmacy, or a clinic
