Understanding Blood Pressure Readings: Is 118 Over 80 Normal?

Yes, a blood pressure reading of 118 over 80 mmHg is considered normal. According to the American Heart Association (AHA), normal blood pressure is typically defined as anything below 120/80 mmHg. Your reading of 118/80 falls within the normal range, indicating healthy blood pressure levels.

Understanding Blood Pressure Numbers

Blood pressure can be measured with two numbers:

Systolic pressure: This is the pressure inside the arteries when your heart is pumping blood. Diastolic pressure: This is the pressure inside the arteries when your heart is resting and filling with blood.

The National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI) of the National Institutes of Health (NIH) provides guidelines for defining blood pressure levels:

Normal blood pressure: Pressure less than 120/80 mmHg. High blood pressure: Pressure more than 140/90 mmHg.

Is 118 Over 80 Normal?

A reading of 118/80 means your systolic pressure is 118 and your diastolic pressure is 80. Health professionals use certain ranges to categorize blood pressure levels. A normal systolic pressure should be less than 120, and a normal diastolic pressure should be less than 80. So, 118/80 is still considered a normal reading, although it is right at the higher end of the normal range.

What Should You Do?

If you are walking around normally, this is perfectly fine. However, if you feel sick or if you have recently started taking medication that might affect your readings, it is advisable to consult a doctor for a proper evaluation.

Pre-hypertension is a condition where blood pressure is often around 118/80. This indicates a risk of developing high blood pressure in the future, which can put extra strain on your heart and arteries. Over time, this can lead to serious health issues such as heart disease or stroke.

Causes of Temporary Blood Pressure Fluctuations

There are several factors that can cause your blood pressure to temporarily rise, including:

Stress Exercise Certain foods or drinks

Doctors typically look at your overall pattern of readings over time to determine if there is a cause for concern. If your numbers stay high consistently, it is important to discuss this with your healthcare provider.

Controlling Blood Pressure with Lifestyle Changes

Healthy lifestyle changes can significantly help control your blood pressure:

Eating a balanced diet Exercising regularly Managing stress

If lifestyle changes alone are not sufficient, your doctor may prescribe medication. Maintaining a normal blood pressure is crucial for overall heart health. Even if 118/80 is normal for you now, it's wise to take steps to ensure it stays within a healthy range.

For more information on how to lower blood pressure with easy exercises, see the detailed profile on our website.