Blood Pressure 74 Over 40–59: Which Are OK?
With an upper value of 74, the answer depends on your lower number. Here are all readings, sorted by what they mean.
On its own, a systolic (upper) value of 74 mmHg is Low blood pressure by the international categories (2023 ESH guideline) and low under the 2025 AHA/ACC guideline. The worse of your two numbers decides the category, so a raised diastolic (lower) value moves a 74 reading up: every listed reading stays in the same category.
Low blood pressure 74/40 to 74/59
What to do with a reading of 74 over …
Clearly low. Measure again; if it is confirmed, or if you have any symptoms (dizziness, fainting, confusion), contact a doctor promptly — the same day. Keep your readings in a free blood pressure log and read how to measure correctly.
Sources: ESH 2023 guideline · AHA/ACC 2025 guideline.