A Blood Pressure Reading of 140 Does Not Automatically Mean Hypertension, Dietitian Says

A single blood pressure reading of 130 or 140 can cause concern, but it does not by itself diagnose hypertension, dietitian Tseng Chien-ming says. Blood pressure can fluctuate with emotions, physical activity, sleep, pain and caffeine, among other factors.

Tseng recommends the “722” method to get a more reliable picture of usual blood pressure: measure for seven consecutive days, once in the morning and once in the evening, and take two readings each time about one minute apart.

Before measuring, people should sit quietly for five minutes and avoid exercise, smoking, coffee or tea for 30 minutes. They should sit with their backs supported and feet on the floor, remain silent, and keep the arm relaxed at heart level.

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A single reading of 130 or 140 does not mean that hypertension can be diagnosed at that moment.

Tseng says common categories include normal blood pressure below 120/80 mmHg, elevated pressure at 120 to 129 with a diastolic reading below 80, stage 1 hypertension at 130 to 139 or 80 to 89, and stage 2 hypertension at 140 or higher or 90 or higher. Persistent elevation should be discussed with a doctor. A reading above 180/120 combined with chest pain, breathing difficulty, weakness, or changes in vision or speech requires immediate medical attention.

He also recommends reducing salt and processed foods, eating more vegetables and minimally processed foods, exercising regularly, maintaining a suitable weight, and paying attention to sleep and stress.

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Measure correctly, measure continuously, and look at the average.