Blood pressure (BP) refers to the force exerted by circulating blood on the walls of blood vessels. It’s an important measure of cardiovascular health and can indicate how well the heart and blood vessels are functioning. Here’s a brief overview:
Understanding Blood Pressure
- Measurement: Blood pressure is measured in millimeters of mercury (mmHg) and is recorded as two numbers:
- Systolic Pressure: The higher number, indicating the pressure in the arteries when the heart beats.
- Diastolic Pressure: The lower number, indicating the pressure in the arteries when the heart is at rest between beats.
- Normal Range:
- Normal blood pressure is typically around 120/80 mmHg.
- Elevated: 120-129/<80 mmHg
- Hypertension Stage 1: 130-139/80-89 mmHg
- Hypertension Stage 2: ≥140/≥90 mmHg
High Blood Pressure – Causes and Symptom
Consequences of High Blood Pressure
Uncontrolled high blood pressure can lead to serious health problems, including:
- Heart disease
- Stroke
- Kidney damage
- Vision loss
Management and Prevention
- Diet: Adopt a heart-healthy diet (e.g., DASH diet) rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and low-fat dairy. Limit salt intake.
- Exercise: Regular physical activity (at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise weekly) can help lower BP.
- Maintain a Healthy Weight: Losing even a small amount of weight can help reduce BP.
- Limit Alcohol and Quit Smoking: Reducing alcohol intake and quitting smoking can significantly improve cardiovascular health.
- Monitor Blood Pressure (BP): Regularly check your BP, especially if you have risk factors.
- Medication: If lifestyle changes aren’t enough, doctors may prescribe medications to help control BP.
If you have specific concerns or need further information, feel free to ask!