Blood pressure is considered too high (hypertension) when:

• Normal blood pressure is below 120/80 mm Hg.
• Elevated blood pressure is when the top number (systolic) is 120-129 mm Hg and the bottom number (diastolic) is below 80 mm Hg.
• Stage 1 hypertension is when the systolic is 130-139 mm Hg or diastolic is 80-89 mm Hg.
• Stage 2 hypertension is when the systolic is 140 mm Hg or higher, or diastolic is 90 mm Hg or higher.

A blood pressure reading of 180/120 mm Hg or higher is considered a hypertensive crisis, which is a medical emergency that requires immediate medical attention as it can lead to life-threatening complications including heart attack or stroke. If your blood pressure reaches 180/120 mm Hg or more and you experience symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath, severe headache, changes in vision, or difficulty speaking, you should seek emergency medical help immediately. For people diagnosed with high blood pressure, lifestyle changes and/or medication may be recommended to manage and lower their blood pressure to safer levels.