Heart Health
Diastolic blood pressure: Worth a second look?
Current blood pressure guidelines define an ideal reading as less than 120/80 millimeters of mercury (mm Hg). According to some research, an even lower systolic value (the first number in the reading) may help prevent even more heart attacks and strokes. But more aggressive treatment to lower systolic blood pressure makes sense only as long as you don’t develop symptoms such as feeling lightheaded or dizzy.
To continue reading this article, you must log in.
Subscribe to Harvard Health Online for immediate access to health news and information from Harvard Medical School.
- Research health conditions
- Check your symptoms
- Prepare for a doctor's visit or test
- Find the best treatments and procedures for you
- Explore options for better nutrition and exercise
I'd like to receive access to Harvard Health Online for only $4.99 a month.
Sign Me UpAlready a member? Login ».
About the Author
Julie Corliss, Executive Editor, Harvard Heart Letter
Disclaimer:
As a service to our readers, Harvard Health Publishing provides access to our library of archived content. Please note the date of last review or update on all articles.
No content on this site, regardless of date, should ever be used as a substitute for direct medical advice from your doctor or other qualified clinician.
