Understanding Your Blood Pressure Numbers
What Is Blood Pressure?
Blood pressure is one of the most vital signs we measure at every consultation, yet many patients are unsure what their numbers actually mean. A blood pressure reading consists of two numbers, systolic (the top number) and diastolic (the bottom number), measured in millimetres of mercury (mmHg).
- Systolic pressure measures the force your blood exerts against artery walls when your heart beats.
- Diastolic pressure measures the force between beats when your heart is at rest.
What Do the Numbers Mean?
A normal reading is generally below 120/80 mmHg. Here is how readings are classified:
- Normal: Below 120/80 mmHg
- Elevated: 120-129 / less than 80 mmHg
- Stage 1 Hypertension: 130-139 / 80-89 mmHg, lifestyle modifications recommended
- Stage 2 Hypertension: 140/90 mmHg and above, medication may be required alongside lifestyle changes
Why Is High Blood Pressure Dangerous?
High blood pressure is often called the "silent killer" because it rarely causes noticeable symptoms. Left untreated, it significantly increases your risk of:
- Heart attack
- Stroke
- Kidney disease
- Vision problems
For a deeper look at how hypertension is diagnosed and treated in South Africa today, including how home and ambulatory readings differ from clinic readings, which lifestyle changes have the strongest evidence, and how first-line medication choices work in South African practice, see our full guide: Managing High Blood Pressure: A South African Guide for George and the Garden Route.
How to Lower Your Blood Pressure
Simple lifestyle changes can make a meaningful difference:
- Reduce salt intake to less than 5 g per day
- Maintain a healthy weight
- Exercise for at least 150 minutes per week
- Limit alcohol consumption
- Manage stress through relaxation techniques
When to Get Checked
At NeoHealth, we recommend that all adults have their blood pressure checked at least annually. If you have risk factors such as a family history of hypertension, diabetes, or obesity, more frequent monitoring is advisable. We offer in-practice blood pressure checks as part of every consultation, and provide ongoing chronic disease management with home monitoring advice. For preventive cardiovascular care covered by your medical aid, or a more detailed annual screening package on a Saturday, see those service pages.
Discovery Health members with a confirmed hypertension diagnosis can be enrolled on the Cardio Care Programme at NeoHealth.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a normal blood pressure reading?
A normal blood pressure reading is generally below 120/80 mmHg. The top number (systolic) measures the force when your heart beats, and the bottom number (diastolic) measures the force between beats.
How often should I check my blood pressure?
All adults should have their blood pressure checked at least once a year. If you have risk factors such as family history of hypertension, diabetes, or obesity, more frequent monitoring is recommended.
Can high blood pressure be lowered without medication?
Yes, lifestyle changes such as reducing salt intake, maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly, limiting alcohol, and managing stress can significantly lower blood pressure. However, if readings are consistently above 140/90 mmHg, medication may also be needed.
About the Author
Dr Ethan Chellan
Dispensing General Practitioner & Co-founder
Dr Chellan, MBChB (Stellenbosch University), is a licensed dispensing GP in George with hospital training at the Port Elizabeth Hospital Complex and Frere Hospital (East London). Postgraduate qualifications include the Diploma in HIV Management (CMSA), Diploma in Child Health (CMSA), and FPD Clinical Management of Mental Health.
MBChB (Stellenbosch University)
Medical disclaimer
This article provides general health information for educational purposes. It is not a substitute for personalised medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment from a qualified healthcare professional. Information reflects current South African clinical practice and referenced guidelines at time of writing, but clinical guidelines evolve. Do not start, stop, or change any medication or treatment based on this article alone.
Reviewed in accordance with HPCSA ethical guidelines on health information publishing and NeoHealth's editorial policy.
For medical emergencies: call 10177 or go to your nearest emergency centre. For personal assessment, book a consultation at NeoHealth.