What is a normal blood pressure reading?

Below 120/80 mmHg is optimal. 120–139/80–89 is elevated or stage 1 hypertension depending on the guideline used. Consistently 140/90 or above generally warrants treatment. Diagnosis should rest on repeated readings, ideally including home measurements.

Diagnosis should rest on an average of multiple readings — typically twice daily for 5-7 days, after 5 minutes seated rest, arm supported at heart level, no caffeine or smoking for 30 minutes.

Discard the first reading of each session and average the rest. Single high readings, especially in a clinic, are often white-coat effect.