Blood pressure is a measure of the force of blood against the walls of your arteries as your heart pumps it throughout your body. It's an essential physiological parameter that helps circulate oxygen and nutrients to your cells and organs. Blood pressure is typically expressed as two values: systolic and diastolic.
Systolic Pressure: This is the higher number in a blood pressure reading. It represents the pressure in your arteries when your heart beats and contracts to pump blood into the circulatory system. Systolic pressure is a reflection of the maximum force exerted on artery walls during a heartbeat.
Diastolic Pressure: This is the lower number in a blood pressure reading. It represents the pressure in your arteries when your heart is at rest between beats, or in other words, when it's filling with blood in preparation for the next heartbeat. Diastolic pressure is a reflection of the minimum pressure in the arteries.
Blood pressure is typically measured in millimeters of mercury (mm Hg) and is written as systolic over diastolic, such as "120/80 mm Hg."
Normal blood pressure for adults is generally considered to be around 120/80 mm Hg. However, blood pressure can vary from person to person and can change throughout the day in response to various factors, including physical activity, stress, and medication.
Here's a breakdown of blood pressure categories:
- Normal: Blood pressure below 120/80 mm Hg.
- Elevated: Systolic between 120-129 mm Hg and diastolic less than 80 mm Hg.
- Hypertension Stage 1: Systolic between 130-139 mm Hg or diastolic between 80-89 mm Hg.
- Hypertension Stage 2: Systolic 140 mm Hg or higher or diastolic 90 mm Hg or higher.
- Hypertensive Crisis: Systolic over 180 mm Hg and/or diastolic over 120 mm Hg. This requires immediate medical attention.
High blood pressure, or hypertension, is a significant health concern because it can strain the heart, damage blood vessels, and increase the risk of heart disease, stroke, and other health problems. It is often referred to as the "silent killer" because it can develop without noticeable symptoms.
Regular monitoring of blood pressure is essential, especially if you have risk factors for hypertension, such as a family history of high blood pressure, obesity, smoking, or a sedentary lifestyle. If you have concerns about your blood pressure or its management, consult with a healthcare provider for guidance and appropriate treatment if necessary.