Blood Pressure

 Blood Pressure Basics

Blood pressure refers to the force exerted by the blood against the walls of the arteries as the heart pumps it throughout the body. It is an essential physiological parameter that helps to maintain adequate blood flow and deliver oxygen and nutrients to tissues and organs.

Blood pressure is measured using two values: systolic pressure and diastolic pressure. Systolic pressure represents the force exerted on the arterial walls when the heart contracts and pumps blood into the circulation. Diastolic pressure, on the other hand, refers to the pressure in the arteries when the heart is at rest between beats.

Blood pressure is typically expressed in millimeters of mercury (mmHg) and is recorded as systolic over diastolic pressure, for example, 120/80 mmHg. The first number (120 in this case) represents the systolic pressure, and the second number (80) represents the diastolic pressure.

Normal blood pressure for adults is generally considered to be around 120/80 mmHg. However, blood pressure can vary among individuals and throughout the day due to factors such as physical activity, stress, and time of day. Blood pressure is usually categorized into several ranges:

1. Normal: Systolic pressure less than 120 mmHg and diastolic pressure less than 80 mmHg.

2. Elevated: Systolic pressure between 120-129 mmHg and diastolic pressure less than 80 mmHg.

3. Hypertension stage 1: Systolic pressure between 130-139 mmHg or diastolic pressure between 80-89 mmHg.

4. Hypertension stage 2: Systolic pressure 140 mmHg or higher or diastolic pressure 90 mmHg or higher.

5. Hypertensive crisis: Systolic pressure over 180 mmHg and/or diastolic pressure over 120 mmHg. This is a severe condition requiring immediate medical attention.

Persistently high blood pressure, known as hypertension, can lead to various health complications, including an increased risk of heart disease, stroke, kidney disease, and other conditions. It is often referred to as the "silent killer" because it may not cause noticeable symptoms until significant damage has occurred.

To manage blood pressure and maintain overall cardiovascular health, lifestyle modifications and, in some cases, medication may be recommended. Lifestyle changes may include regular exercise, adopting a healthy diet (such as the DASH diet, which emphasizes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and low-fat dairy products), reducing sodium intake, limiting alcohol consumption, quitting smoking, managing stress, and maintaining a healthy weight.

It is important to monitor blood pressure regularly, especially for individuals with hypertension or those at risk. This can be done at home using a blood pressure monitor or through regular check-ups with a healthcare professional. If you have concerns about your blood pressure or any related symptoms, it is always advisable to consult with a medical professional for proper evaluation and guidance.