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What is High Blood Pressure

From Jose Vega M.D., Ph.D., for About.com

Updated: November 02, 2008

About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by the Medical Review Board

Blood

Blood pressure measured with a blood pressure cuff

Photo © A.D.A.M.
Definition: When the amount of force exerted by circulating blood onto the walls of the body's arteries exceeds the highest end of the normal level, which is defined by doctors as 140/90, millimeters of mercury (mm Hg). Normal blood pressure is considered to be 120/80.
Also Known As: hypertension
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