Blood Pressure (mm Hg) | Low Risk of ASCVD* | High Risk of ASCVD* | Presence of ASCVD* |
---|---|---|---|
Elevated blood pressure (120–129 systolic, less than 80 diastolic) | Lifestyle changes Re-examination in 3–6 months | Lifestyle changes Re-examination in 3–6 months | Lifestyle changes Re-examination in 3–6 months |
Stage 1 high blood pressure ( 130–139 systolic, 80–89 diastolic) | Lifestyle changes Re-examination in 3–6 months | Treatment with 1 blood pressure–lowering medication† Re-examination in 1 month | Treatment with 1 blood pressure–lowering medication† Re-examination in 1 month |
Stage 2 high blood pressure (systolic 140 or higher OR diastolic 90 or higher)‡ | Treatment with 2 blood pressure–lowering medications Re-examination in 1 month | Treatment with 2 blood pressure–lowering medications Re-examination in 1 month | Treatment with 2 blood pressure–lowering medications Re-examination in 1 month |
* ASCVD = atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease, including coronary artery disease, heart failure, or stroke. Low risk is considered less than 10%. High risk is 10% or more. | |||
† Lifestyle changes are recommended for all people receiving medication therapy. | |||
‡ For people with blood pressure readings of 140–159/90–100, doctors prescribe two medications (of different classes) for the initial treatment, and they re-examine the person frequently. |