High blood pressure: What is it all about? Published Feb. 8, 2010 By Maj. Tina Golden 3rd Medical Group ELMENDORF AIR FORCE BASE, Alaska -- High blood pressure, or hypertension, is defined in an adult as a systolic pressure of 140 mm Hg or higher and a diastolic pressure of 90 mm Hg or higher. Blood pressure is measured in millimeters of mercury (mm Hg). Blood pressure Normal Prehypertension Hypertension Systolic (top number) less than 120 120-139 140 or higher Diastolic (bottom number) less than 80 80-89 90 or higher mm Hg = millimeters of mercury High blood pressure directly increases the risk of coronary heart disease, which leads to heart attack and stroke, especially when combined with other risk factors. High blood pressure can occur in children or adults. It's particularly prevalent in African Americans, middle-aged and elderly people, obese people and heavy drinkers. People with diabetes mellitus, gout or kidney disease may have hypertension more often. High blood pressure usually has no symptoms. It's truly a "silent killer." But a simple, quick, painless test can detect it and that's taking your blood pressure. One can find a blood pressure machine at the fitness center and 3rd Medical Group. Also, every time someone comes in for a visit to the 3rd MDG and sees their primary care manager their blood pressure is checked. For more information, go to the American Heart Association Web site at http://www.americanheart.org or if someone thinks they have a blood pressure problem and is not currently being treated they are advised to make an appointment with their primary care manager by calling 580-2778.