Understand your blood pressure
Plain answers to the questions people ask about blood pressure: what the numbers mean, how to check it at home, and what helps. Every guide is based on NHS and other UK health guidance.
The numbers the NHS uses
140/90or higher, checked by a nurse or doctor, counts as high
135/85or higher counts as high when you check at home
Below 90/60counts as low blood pressure
Source: NHS, Blood pressure test and Low blood pressure. Your GP or nurse may set a different target for you.
If you feel unwell now
Call 999 if you have chest pain that comes on suddenly and won't ease, or chest pain that spreads to your arm, neck, jaw, back or stomach. For other urgent worries, call NHS 111 or use 111.nhs.uk.