Categories >> Body Measurements >> Blood Pressure
Blood pressure refers to the force exerted by blood pushing against the walls of your arteries, measured as two numbers: systolic pressure (when the heart beats, highest pressure) and diastolic pressure (when the heart rests between beats, lower pressure); a normal blood pressure reading indicates a healthy balance between these two forces, while consistently high blood pressure (hypertension) can pose health risks if left untreated. [1, 2, 3, 4, 5]
Key points about blood pressure: [1, 2, 6]
• Definition: The pressure exerted by blood on the inner walls of arteries as the heart pumps blood throughout the body. [1, 2, 6]
• Measurement: Reported as two numbers, with the top number representing systolic pressure (when the heart contracts) and the bottom number representing diastolic pressure (when the heart relaxes). [1, 2, 3]
• Normal range: Generally considered to be below 120/80 mmHg (millimeters of mercury). [2, 3, 4]
• High blood pressure (hypertension): When blood pressure consistently remains above normal levels, increasing the risk of cardiovascular diseases like stroke and heart attack. [3, 6, 7]
• Factors affecting blood pressure: Cardiac output (amount of blood pumped by the heart), blood vessel diameter, stress levels, physical activity, and diet. [4, 8, 9]
• Measuring blood pressure: A medical professional uses a sphygmomanometer (blood pressure cuff) to take a reading by listening to blood flow through the artery with a stethoscope. [3, 6, 10]
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