According to stages of hypertension, which blood pressure reading is considered elevated?

In the context of hypertension stages, an elevated blood pressure reading is classified as being higher than normal but not yet at the level defined as hypertension. According to current guidelines, a blood pressure reading is considered elevated if the systolic measurement is between 120-129 mm Hg and the diastolic measurement is less than 80 mm Hg.

The reading of 128/78 mm Hg fits into this category since the systolic pressure of 128 mm Hg is within the specified range for elevated blood pressure, while the diastolic pressure of 78 mm Hg is below the threshold of 80 mm Hg. This classification is crucial because it indicates a risk factor for developing hypertension in the future, prompting healthcare providers to monitor the individual's blood pressure more closely and encourage lifestyle modifications to prevent progression.

Blood pressure readings like 120/80 mm Hg are considered normal, and readings like 130/90 mm Hg or 140/92 mm Hg fall into the categories of Stage 1 hypertension and Stage 2 hypertension, respectively.