Is 150/90 a Good BP?
No, a blood pressure of 150/90 mmHg is generally not considered good. It falls into the category of Stage 1 hypertension, meaning high blood pressure.
Blood pressure is measured in two numbers: systolic (the top number) and diastolic (the bottom number). The systolic reading represents the pressure in your arteries when your heart beats, while the diastolic reading represents the pressure when your heart rests between beats.
- Normal blood pressure: Generally considered to be below 120/80 mmHg.
- Elevated blood pressure: Systolic between 120-129 mmHg and diastolic less than 80 mmHg.
- Stage 1 hypertension: Systolic between 130-139 mmHg or diastolic between 80-89 mmHg.
- Stage 2 hypertension: Systolic 140 mmHg or higher, or diastolic 90 mmHg or higher. A reading of 150/90 falls squarely into this category.
- Hypertensive crisis: Readings of 180/120 mmHg or higher require immediate medical attention.
Exceptions for Older Adults
Some healthcare providers may recommend a blood pressure goal of 150/90 mmHg for individuals aged 60 and older. However, this is not a universal guideline, and individual circumstances should be considered. [This point is supported by the Mount Sinai article and the Business Standard article, which mention that some providers consider 150/90 acceptable for those over 60, while other resources state 140/90 is the threshold for Stage 2 hypertension].
Importance of Seeking Medical Advice
A blood pressure reading of 150/90 mmHg warrants consultation with a doctor. They can assess your individual risk factors, determine the appropriate course of action, and discuss lifestyle changes or medications to manage your blood pressure. [Multiple sources, including MedicineNet, FDA, and Vinmec, highlight the importance of seeking medical attention for consistently high blood pressure].
