What does a blood pressure reading of 130/85 signify?

A blood pressure reading of 130/85 is indicative of pre-hypertension according to the current guidelines. Blood pressure is categorized based on two key measurements: systolic pressure (the first number, 130 in this case) and diastolic pressure (the second number, 85).

In adults, the classification for blood pressure readings is as follows:

• Normal blood pressure is defined as a systolic reading less than 120 and a diastolic reading less than 80.

• Elevated blood pressure is when systolic readings are between 120-129 and diastolic readings are less than 80.

• Pre-hypertension or stage 1 hypertension begins with systolic readings in the range of 130-139 or diastolic readings from 80-89.

Since the systolic reading is 130, this places the individual in the pre-hypertensive category. The diastolic reading, at 85, is also consistent with this classification, marking a step away from normal ranges but not yet in the hypertension category, which occurs when systolic readings are at least 140 or diastolic readings are at least 90.

Therefore, the correct interpretation of a blood pressure reading of 130