Blood pressure is the force exerted by the blood against the walls of the arteries as it flows through the circulatory system. Blood pressure is an important measure of overall cardiovascular health and can be used to diagnose and monitor a range of medical conditions, including hypertension (high blood pressure) and hypotension (low blood pressure).
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 connected to a mercury or digital manometer. Blood pressure is measured in millimeters of mercury (mmHg) and is expressed as two numbers:
Normal blood pressure is typically considered to be around 120/80 mmHg. However, blood pressure can vary depending on factors such as age, gender, and overall health. High blood pressure (hypertension) is defined as a systolic pressure of 130 mmHg or higher, or a diastolic pressure of 80 mmHg or higher. Low blood pressure (hypotension) is defined as a systolic pressure of less than 90 mmHg, or a diastolic pressure of less than 60 mmHg.
Blood pressure can be affected by a number of factors, including genetics, lifestyle factors (such as diet and exercise), and underlying medical conditions (such as heart disease or diabetes). Treatment for high or low blood pressure may include lifestyle changes, such as adopting a healthy diet and regular exercise, as well as medications to help regulate blood pressure. It is important to monitor blood pressure regularly and seek medical attention if levels are consistently outside of the normal range.
