© Otto Yamamoto (Flickr) Sussex County NJ
© Otto Yamamoto (Flickr)
Blood pressure readings
Blood pressure is written in two numbers and measured in millimetres of mercury (mmHg). For example,
if the blood pressure is 120/80mmHg, then 120 is the upper or the systolic blood pressure number (highest level of blood pressure when the heart beats) and 80 is the lower or diastolic blood pressure (lowest blood pressure when the heart relaxes between beats) recorded. Blood pressure usually lowers while you sleep and rises when you are awake.
Blood pressure norms
Normal blood pressure:
The normal blood pressure range is 120/80mmHg.
High blood pressure (HBP):
Also known as hypertension, this blood pressure range is 140/90mmHg or above and remains the same over a few weeks. If the blood pressure is 120/95mmHg, then it is known as stage 1 HBP. If it is 160/80mmHg, it is termed as stage 2 HBP and in diabetes or chronic kidney diseases, the reading is 130/80mmHg or higher.
Low blood pressure:
This is also known as hypotension and is in the range of 90/60mmHg or lower. Health problems or certain medications can cause low blood pressure. Though it does not cause any problems, it can lead to dizziness or faintness.
Measuring blood pressure
Measuring devices such as sphygmomanometer (or a digital one that uses electrical sensors) are used to produce accurate results.
What is high blood pressure?
High blood pressure or hypertension causes the heart to work with greater intensity thereby putting extra pressure on blood vessels. This increases a risk of heart attack, strokes, kidney diseases, atherosclerosis or eye damage.
There are two types of high blood pressures: primary, which has no known cause, and secondary, which is usually due to medications or an underlying kidney disease.
Symptoms
Symptoms of hypertension include vision problem, shortness of breath, giddiness and headaches.
Causes
Hypertension is caused usually due to a problem in kidneys, lack of exercise, poor diet or obesity, smoking, high salt intake, alcohol, high cholesterol, age or diabetes. It is diagnosed by testing the blood pressure.
Treatment
Medication and lifestyle changes are recommended to lower blood pressure.
How to reduce blood pressure?
Lifestyle changes such as regular exercise, controlling diet (taking fruits, vegetables and less fatty substances), quitting smoking and drinking, yoga and meditation, and reducing caffeine and salt intake can help in lowering blood pressure, thereby leading to a well balanced and healthy lifestyle.