Blood pressure · Heart health
Understanding your blood pressure numbers
What do the two numbers mean, what counts as high, and what can you do about it? A plain-language guide to one of the most important health checks you can have.
By DenRich Pharmacy Team · · 2 min read
High blood pressure (hypertension) is one of the most common health problems among adults in Ghana, and many people who have it don't know. It usually causes no symptoms, but over time it can damage your heart, brain, kidneys and eyes.
What the two numbers mean
A reading like 130/85 has two parts:
- Systolic (top number): the pressure when your heart beats and pushes blood out.
- Diastolic (bottom number): the pressure when your heart rests between beats.
What is a healthy reading?
As a general guide for adults:
| Reading | What it suggests |
|---|---|
| Below 120/80 | Ideal |
| 120/80 to 139/89 | Higher than ideal, so keep an eye on it |
| 140/90 or higher (on repeated checks) | High blood pressure; see a doctor |
| 180/120 or higher | Very high; seek medical care urgently |
One high reading does not mean you have hypertension. Blood pressure changes during the day, so it needs to be checked more than once.
Getting an accurate reading
- Avoid coffee, smoking and exercise for 30 minutes before.
- Sit quietly for 5 minutes with your back supported and feet flat on the floor.
- Rest your arm at heart level and don't talk during the reading.
Simple ways to lower your blood pressure
- Eat less salt. Watch out for stock cubes, salted fish and processed foods.
- Eat more fruit and vegetables such as kontomire, garden eggs, oranges and bananas.
- Move more. A brisk 30-minute walk on most days makes a real difference.
- Keep a healthy weight.
- Limit alcohol and stop smoking.
- Take your medicines every day if they have been prescribed, even when you feel well.
Blood pressure checks at DenRich Pharmacy are free. Walk in any day and we'll record your reading on a card you can take to your doctor.
This article is general information, not a substitute for advice from a pharmacist or doctor who knows your situation. Read our medical disclaimer.