Blood pressure is a key indicator of overall health, yet many people do not fully understand what it is, how it is measured, or the potential health risks associated with abnormal levels. In this article, we will explore the basics of blood pressure, how it is measured, and why it is important to be aware of the potential dangers of both high and low blood pressure.
What is Blood Pressure?
Blood pressure is the force of circulating blood against the walls of your arteries as your heart pumps it throughout the body. This vital measurement ensures that oxygen and nutrients reach your organs and tissues. Blood pressure is recorded in millimeters of mercury (mm Hg) and is usually written as two numbers: the systolic pressure (the higher number) over the diastolic pressure (the lower number). For example, a reading of 120/80 mm Hg means your systolic pressure is 120 and your diastolic pressure is 80.
How is Blood Pressure Measured?
Blood pressure is measured with a device called a sphygmomanometer, which includes an inflatable cuff, a pressure gauge, and sometimes a stethoscope. The cuff is placed around your upper arm and inflated to temporarily stop blood flow. As the cuff is slowly deflated, a healthcare provider listens for the sounds of blood flow in the artery using a stethoscope. The systolic pressure is recorded when the first sound is heard, and the diastolic pressure is recorded when the sound disappears. These measurements can be tracked on a blood pressure chart to monitor changes over time.
Blood Pressure vs. Heart Rate
Although blood pressure and heart rate (pulse) are both important for assessing cardiovascular health, they measure different aspects. Blood pressure indicates the force of blood pushing against the artery walls, while heart rate measures how many times the heart beats each minute. While both provide valuable information about your cardiovascular system, they serve different roles in evaluating your overall well-being and heart function.
What Do Blood Pressure Numbers Mean
Blood pressure numbers indicate the force of blood in your arteries during two main phases of each heartbeat. The systolic pressure (the top number) measures the pressure when the heart contracts and pumps blood into the arteries. The diastolic pressure (the bottom number) measures the pressure when the heart relaxes between beats.
Normal Blood Pressure Numbers
A normal blood pressure reading is typically around 120/80 mm Hg. However, the ideal range can vary based on age, sex, and individual health factors. For most adults, maintaining a blood pressure below 120/80 mm Hg is considered healthy and important for overall well-being.
High Blood Pressure (Hypertension)
High blood pressure, or hypertension, occurs when the force of blood against your artery walls remains consistently elevated. Hypertension is classified in stages: Stage 1 involves readings between 130/80 and 139/89 mm Hg, while Stage 2 refers to readings of 140/90 mm Hg or higher.
What Causes High Blood Pressure
The causes of high blood pressure are often complex and involve multiple factors. These can include genetics, unhealthy lifestyle habits (such as poor diet, lack of exercise, and smoking), obesity, stress, and certain underlying health conditions. Identifying symptoms early is important for timely treatment and effective management.
Problems Caused by High Blood Pressure
If high blood pressure is left untreated, it can lead to serious health complications such as heart disease, stroke, kidney damage, vision problems, and injury to blood vessels throughout the body. Proper management of hypertension is essential to reduce these risks and protect your long-term health.
Low Blood Pressure
Low blood pressure, or hypotension, occurs when the force of blood against the artery walls is lower than normal. As a result, blood may not flow efficiently to vital organs and tissues. This can cause symptoms such as dizziness, fainting, fatigue, and blurred vision.
What Causes Low Blood Pressure
Low blood pressure can be caused by a range of factors, including dehydration, certain medications, heart conditions, endocrine disorders, and other health problems. A specific form, called orthostatic hypotension, happens when blood pressure drops suddenly upon standing up from a sitting or lying position.
Problems Caused by Low Blood Pressure
Low blood pressure can cause symptoms like dizziness, fainting, fatigue, and blurred vision. In more severe cases, it may result in insufficient oxygen supply to the brain and other vital organs, which can lead to organ damage or even organ failure.
Prevention and Treatment of Blood Pressure Problems
Preventing and treating blood pressure problems often involve lifestyle modifications such as maintaining a healthy diet, regular exercise, limiting alcohol consumption, quitting smoking, managing stress, and taking prescribed medications if necessary. Regular monitoring of blood pressure is essential for early detection and management of any issues. Individuals with hypertension or hypotension should consult with a healthcare provider to develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to their specific needs.
* Liv Hospital Editorial Board has contributed to the publication of this content .
* Contents of this page is for informational purposes only. Please consult your doctor for diagnosis and treatment. The content of this page does not include information on medicinal health care at Liv Hospital .