Blood pressure refers to the
force of blood pushing against the walls of the blood vessels as it circulates
through the body. It is an important measure of cardiovascular health and can
be influenced by a number of factors, including age, diet, exercise, and
genetics.
Blood pressure is typically measured using a device
called a sphygmomanometer, which consists of an inflatable cuff that is wrapped
around the upper arm and a pressure gauge. The cuff is inflated to a pressure
that temporarily stops the flow of blood through the brachial artery in the
arm, and then slowly deflated while the healthcare provider listens for the
sound of blood flowing through the artery with a stethoscope.
Blood pressure is reported as two numbers, systolic
and diastolic pressure. The systolic pressure measures the pressure in the
arteries when the heart contracts and pumps blood out, while the diastolic
pressure measures the pressure in the arteries when the heart is at rest
between beats. Normal blood pressure is typically considered to be a systolic
pressure of less than 120 mmHg and a diastolic pressure of less than 80 mmHg.
High blood pressure, or hypertension, is a
condition in which the pressure in the arteries is consistently elevated above
normal levels. This can increase the risk of cardiovascular disease and other
health problems, such as stroke, kidney disease, and vision loss. Lifestyle
changes, such as regular exercise, a healthy diet, and stress reduction, can
help to lower blood pressure, as can medications prescribed by a healthcare
provider.
Low blood pressure, or hypotension, is a condition
in which the pressure in the arteries is consistently lower than normal levels.
This can cause dizziness, fainting, and other symptoms, and can be caused by a
variety of factors, including dehydration, certain medications, and underlying
health conditions. Treatment for hypotension depends on the underlying cause
and severity of the condition.