What a blood pressure reading of 157 over 104 actually means

What It Means

A blood pressure reading of 157/104 mmHg is considered high, as both the upper systolic number and the lower diastolic number sit well above the healthy range. Dr Aarti Ullal, a physician and diabetologist at Gleneagles Hospital Parel, notes that this means blood is pushing against vessel walls with too much force. While a single high check does not automatically confirm hypertension, repeated high numbers over time raise the risk of heart, brain, kidney, and blood vessel problems.

What To Do

If you see this high reading on a home monitor, do not panic, but do not ignore it either. Sit quietly with your feet on the floor, avoid talking, and wait about five minutes before testing again with a validated upper-arm monitor that has the correct cuff size. Temporary spikes can happen due to stress, pain, caffeine, smoking, exercise, or a poorly fitted cuff. If the repeat number stays high, do not try to lower it on your own; instead, contact a doctor to discuss the pattern.

When To Seek Emergency Help

A reading of 180/120 mmHg or higher requires prompt medical attention. Seek emergency help right away if a very high reading comes with dangerous symptoms such as chest pain, severe breathlessness, a bad headache, confusion, one-sided weakness or numbness, trouble speaking, vision changes, or loss of consciousness.