How to properly measure your blood pressure at home and when you should really worry

Measuring blood pressure seems simple, but most people do it incorrectly—leading to unnecessary worries, urgent hospital visits, or misdiagnoses. This guide explains how blood pressure works, how to measure it correctly, when to worry, and which habits and foods can help keep it under control.

What is blood pressure?
Blood pressure is the force with which blood presses against the walls of the arteries each time the heart beats.

Systolic (max): When the heart contracts.
Diastolic (min): when the heart relaxes.
Healthy blood pressure is generally below 120/80 mmHg.
When is it high?