Blood Pressure is Measured In
Blood pressure is a measure of the force exerted by the blood against the walls of the arteries as it circulates through the body. It is an important aspect of cardiovascular health, as high blood pressure (hypertension) can lead to a variety of serious health problems, including heart disease, stroke, and kidney failure. In this article, we will explore how blood pressure is measured and what factors can affect it.
What Is Blood Pressure?
Blood pressure is measured in two numbers: systolic and diastolic. The systolic number represents the pressure in the arteries when the heart beats (contracts), while the diastolic number represents the pressure in the arteries when the heart is at rest (between beats). Blood pressure is typically recorded as a ratio of the systolic pressure over the diastolic pressure, such as 120/80 mmHg (millimeters of mercury). This is read as "120 over 80."
How Is Blood Pressure Measured?
Blood pressure is typically measured using a device called a sphygmomanometer, which consists of an inflatable cuff, a pressure gauge, and a stethoscope. The cuff is wrapped around the upper arm and inflated to a pressure that temporarily stops blood flow through the brachial artery. The pressure in the cuff is then slowly released while listening for the sound of blood flowing through the artery using the stethoscope. The point at which the sound disappears (systolic pressure) and the point at which the sound reappears (diastolic pressure) are recorded as the blood pressure.
What Factors Can Affect Blood Pressure?
There are many factors that can affect blood pressure, including age, gender, genetics, lifestyle habits, and medical conditions. As we age, our blood vessels become less elastic and our blood pressure tends to increase. Men are more likely to develop high blood pressure than women until women reach menopause. Certain genetic factors can also increase the risk of hypertension. Lifestyle habits such as a diet high in sodium, lack of physical activity, and smoking can also contribute to high blood pressure. Medical conditions such as diabetes, sleep apnea, and kidney disease can also affect blood pressure.
What Is Considered Normal Blood Pressure?
The American Heart Association recommends that adults have their blood pressure checked at least once every two years. Normal blood pressure is considered to be less than 120/80 mmHg. Elevated blood pressure is defined as a systolic pressure between 120-129 mmHg and a diastolic pressure less than 80 mmHg. Stage 1 hypertension is defined as a systolic pressure between 130-139 mmHg or a diastolic pressure between 80-89 mmHg. Stage 2 hypertension is defined as a systolic pressure of 140 mmHg or higher or a diastolic pressure of 90 mmHg or higher.
Conclusion
Blood pressure is an important aspect of cardiovascular health that is measured in two numbers: systolic and diastolic. Blood pressure is typically measured using a device called a sphygmomanometer, and many factors can affect blood pressure, including age, gender, genetics, lifestyle habits, and medical conditions. Normal blood pressure is considered to be less than 120/80 mmHg, and it is important to have blood pressure checked regularly to prevent serious health problems.
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