Lisa,

Thanks for your question.  It's not clear from your question who is taking your blood pressure, but it needs to be checked by your physician.  The readings that you've indicated are above the normal range.  The American Heart Association has defined normal diastolic blood pressure (the lower number) as less than 80.  Between 80 and 89 is considered prehypertension (Hypertension is a term that means high blood pressure).  And any diastolic reading of 90 or greater is high blood pressure.  Similarly, the systolic blood pressure (top number) should be less than 120 to be normal.  An upper reading of 120 - 139 is considered prehypertension.  And readings of 140 or more are considered high blood pressure.

I suggest you make an appointment with your phsyician for a full evaluation: first to confirm these readings; and second, to search for any underlying conditions that may be causing this elevation in blood pressure.  Early treatment of hypertension can reduce your risk of developing heart and other vascular disease.  Your doctor will discuss the risks and treatment with you, and get you on track for a healthier future.

Please log into the High Blood Pressure module of HealthCentral.com to learn more about Hypertension, some causes, risks, and most important, treatment. 

Martin Cane, M.D.