Did you know that high blood pressure affects nearly 1 in 4 adults in Singapore, yet many people don’t even realize they have it? Often called the “silent killer,” blood pressure issues can develop without obvious symptoms, making regular monitoring crucial for your health. Whether you’re curious about those numbers on your latest health screening or considering getting a blood pressure monitor for home use, understanding what your readings mean is the first step toward better cardiovascular health. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about blood pressure, from reading charts to choosing the right monitor for your needs.
What is Blood Pressure and Why It Matters
Blood pressure is the force your blood exerts against the walls of your arteries as your heart pumps it around your body. It is essential for delivering oxygen and nutrients throughout your body, but chronically high blood pressure can damage your cardiovascular system over time12.
Systolic vs Diastolic — What’s the Difference?
- Systolic pressure (top number): Pressure in your arteries when your heart beats.
- Diastolic pressure (bottom number): Pressure in your arteries when your heart rests between beats.
- Both numbers are important, but systolic pressure is a stronger predictor of cardiovascular problems in people over 5012.
What’s Considered Normal Blood Pressure?
According to current international guidelines:
- Normal: Less than 120/80 mmHg
- Elevated: Systolic 120–129 and diastolic less than 80 mmHg
- High Blood Pressure Stage 1: Systolic 130–139 or diastolic 80–89 mmHg
- High Blood Pressure Stage 2: Systolic ≥140 or diastolic ≥90 mmHg
- Hypertensive Crisis: Systolic >180 and/or diastolic >120 mmHg123
These ranges are consistent with recommendations from the American Heart Association, Mayo Clinic, and Healthline123.
Understanding Blood Pressure Readings
Blood pressure fluctuates throughout the day due to activity, stress, and other factors. A single high reading does not necessarily mean you have hypertension; healthcare providers look for patterns over multiple readings12.
Using a Blood Pressure Chart
Blood pressure charts visually categorize readings (normal, elevated, high) and help track trends over time. Multiple readings on different days are necessary for accurate diagnosis14.
What Your Numbers Say About Your Health
- Normal readings: Indicate healthy heart and arteries.
- Elevated readings: Early warning sign; often progress to hypertension without intervention.
- High readings: Increase risk of heart disease, stroke, and kidney problems12.
- Low blood pressure: Can cause symptoms like dizziness or fainting if too low4.
Monitoring Blood Pressure at Home
Home monitoring is recommended for people with elevated or high blood pressure to help detect “white coat hypertension” and track trends3.
Choosing the Right Blood Pressure Monitor
- Cuff size: Must fit properly for accuracy.
- Automatic monitors: Easier and more accurate for self-use.
- Validated devices: Look for monitors approved by medical organizations.
- Memory function: Useful for tracking readings over time53.
How to Take Accurate Readings
- Sit quietly for 5 minutes before measuring
- Use the bathroom first
- Sit with back supported, feet flat
- Place cuff on bare skin, arm at heart level
- Take 2–3 readings, one minute apart, and average them53
Best times: Morning before medications, evening before dinner5.
Blood Pressure Trends in Singapore
Hypertension affects about 25% of Singaporean adults, with prevalence rising sharply after age 40. Men tend to develop hypertension earlier, but women’s risk increases after menopause. Blood pressure rises with age globally and in Singapore4.
Where to Get Your Blood Pressure Checked in Singapore
- Polyclinics, private clinics, pharmacies, community screenings, and workplace health programs all offer blood pressure checks4.
When to Seek Medical Advice
Seek immediate care if you experience:
- Blood pressure over 180/120 mmHg
- Severe headache, chest pain, shortness of breath, vision changes, severe anxiety, confusion, or nausea with high blood pressure
These may indicate a hypertensive crisis and require emergency treatment12.
Managing High or Low Blood Pressure Safely
- High blood pressure: Follow prescribed medication, maintain a low-sodium diet, exercise, limit alcohol, manage stress, and monitor regularly123.
- Low blood pressure: Stay hydrated, avoid sudden position changes, eat small frequent meals, discuss symptoms with your doctor4.
Never stop or change medications without consulting your healthcare provider13.
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