What does a measurement of 130/85 mm Hg signify?

A measurement of 130/85 mm Hg is indicative of prehypertension. This classification is based on established blood pressure categories that help identify potential cardiovascular risks. According to the American Heart Association, blood pressure readings between 120-129 systolic and less than 80 diastolic are considered elevated, while readings of 130-139 systolic or 80-89 diastolic fall into the prehypertensive category.

When evaluating blood pressure, the systolic number (the first number) represents the pressure in the arteries when the heart beats, while the diastolic number (the second number) indicates the pressure when the heart is at rest between beats. A systolic reading of 130 suggests that the individual is approaching a hypertensive state, especially when considered alongside the diastolic reading which is 85—closer to the threshold of hypertension (90 and above).

For context, normal blood pressure is classified as less than 120/80 mm Hg, while hypertension is categorized as 130/80 mm Hg or higher. Hypotension refers to blood pressure that is lower than the normal range, generally defined as below 90/60 mm Hg. Thus, the reading of 130/85 mm Hg does not