High blood pressure for adults is divided into stages. At each stage, there is a greater risk to your health. A hypertensive crisis, which is measured at 180/120, is a sharp increase of blood pressure that may cause a stroke. | Stage | Systolic BP | Diastolic BP | | --- | --- | --- | | Elevated | 120-129 mm Hg | Less than 80 mm Hg | | Stage 1 hypertension | 130-139 mm Hg | 80-89 mm Hg | | Stage 2 hypertension | 140 mm Hg and up | 90 mm Hg and up | | Hypertensive crisis | 180 mm Hg and up | 120 mm Hg and up | A consistent rise in your blood pressure over time comes with an increased risk to your health. Your healthcare provider is likely to respond in these ways: 1. Elevated: * You are likely to develop hypertension unless you take steps to control it. * These may include lifestyle changes, such as eating a heart-healthy diet, getting more exercise, and quitting smoking. 2. Stage 1 hypertension: * Your healthcare provider will probably recommend lifestyle changes. * They may also prescribe medication, depending on your risk for cardiovascular disease, heart attack, or stroke. 3. Stage 2 hypertension: * Your healthcare provider will likely prescribe both medication and lifestyle changes to lower your blood pressure. 4. Hypertensive crisis: * Seek medical attention right away if your blood pressure is this high. * You could experience a heart attack, stroke, or something else that can damage your organs or threaten your life.