What do the results mean?
Your results, also known as a blood pressure reading, will contain two numbers. The top or first number is the systolic pressure. The bottom or second number is the diastolic pressure. High blood pressure readings are also labeled by categories, ranging from normal to crisis. Your reading may show your blood pressure is:
Blood Pressure Category
Systolic Blood Pressure
Diastolic Blood Pressure
Normal
Less than 120
and
Less than 80
High Blood Pressure (no other heart risk factors)
140 or higher
or
90 or higher
High Blood Pressure (with other heart risk factors, according to some providers)
130 or higher
or
80 or higher
Dangerously high blood pressure - seek medical care right away
180 or higher
and
120 or higher
If you've been diagnosed with high blood pressure, your provider may recommend lifestyle changes and/or medicines to control your blood pressure. Your provider may also recommend that you regularly check your blood pressure at home with an automated blood pressure monitor. An at-home blood pressure monitor usually includes a blood pressure cuff and a digital device to record and display blood pressure readings.
Home monitoring is not a replacement for regular visits to your provider. But it can provide important information, such as whether treatment is working or your condition may have worsened. Also, home monitoring may make the test less stressful. Many people get nervous about getting their blood pressure taken at a provider's office. This is called "white coat syndrome." It can cause a temporary rise in blood pressure, making the results less accurate. 
For more information about home monitoring of blood pressure, talk to your provider.
If you were tested for low blood pressure, a blood pressure reading of 90 systolic, 60 diastolic (90/60) or lower is considered abnormal. Treatments for low blood pressure may include medicines and making certain changes to your diet.
