What blood pressure reading typically indicates hypertension?

• A. 120/80
• B. 140/90
• C. 100/65
• D. 130/85

Answer: (B)

A blood pressure reading of 140/90 mmHg is indicative of hypertension based on most established guidelines, including those from the American Heart Association. Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is generally defined as having a consistent reading of 130 systolic or higher or 80 diastolic or higher. The reading of 140/90 clearly falls into this category, indicating that both the systolic (the top number) and diastolic (the bottom number) values are elevated.

In contrast, a blood pressure of 120/80 mmHg is considered normal. The reading of 100/65 mmHg is regarded as low, or hypotensive, and thus does not indicate hypertension. Lastly, while a reading of 130/85 is elevated and may suggest prehypertension or a need for monitoring, it does not yet meet the threshold for a diagnosis of hypertension, as the diastolic number is still below the cut-off for high blood pressure.