Ideal Blood Pressure Range: Understanding the Numbers
Blood pressure is a measure of the force of blood against the walls of your arteries. It is an important indicator of your health, and high blood pressure (hypertension) is a major risk factor for heart disease and stroke. Conversely, low blood pressure (hypotension) can also be a cause for concern.
What do the numbers mean?
When you have your blood pressure measured, you will receive two numbers: the systolic pressure (the top number) and the diastolic pressure (the bottom number). The systolic pressure represents the pressure in your arteries when your heart beats, while the diastolic pressure represents the pressure in your arteries when your heart is at rest between beats.
According to the American Heart Association, normal blood pressure is defined as a systolic pressure of less than 120 mm Hg and a diastolic pressure of less than 80 mm Hg. Elevated blood pressure is defined as a systolic pressure of 120–129 mm Hg and a diastolic pressure of less than 80 mm Hg. Stage 1 hypertension is defined as a systolic pressure of 130–139 mm Hg or a diastolic pressure of 80–89 mm Hg. Stage 2 hypertension is defined as a systolic pressure of 140 mm Hg or higher or a diastolic pressure of 90 mm Hg or higher.
Why is it important to maintain a healthy blood pressure?
High blood pressure can lead to a variety of health problems, including heart disease, stroke, and kidney disease. It can also cause damage to your blood vessels, which can contribute to the development of atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries) and increase your risk of heart attack and stroke.
On the other hand, low blood pressure can be a sign of an underlying health problem, such as anemia, dehydration, or a heart condition. Symptoms of low blood pressure can include dizziness, lightheadedness, and fainting.
How can you maintain a healthy blood pressure?
There are a number of lifestyle changes you can make to help maintain a healthy blood pressure. These include:
- Eating a healthy diet that is low in sodium and high in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
- Maintaining a healthy weight
- Being physically active on a regular basis
- Limiting alcohol consumption
- Not smoking
- Managing stress
If you have high blood pressure, your doctor may recommend medication in addition to lifestyle changes.
Conclusion
Maintaining a healthy blood pressure is an important part of overall health and wellness. By understanding what the numbers mean and taking steps to maintain a healthy blood pressure, you can reduce your risk of developing a variety of health problems.
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