112 73 Blood Pressure: Understanding Your Reading
When you visit your doctor, one of the first things they check is your blood pressure. This is a routine part of any physical examination, and it is an important indicator of your overall health. The reading consists of two numbers, and it is expressed as a fraction, for example, 112/73. In this article, we will explain what these numbers mean and why they matter.
What is Blood Pressure?
Blood pressure is the force that your blood exerts on the walls of your arteries. It is created by the pumping action of your heart, which sends blood throughout your body. The two numbers in your blood pressure reading represent the highest and lowest pressures in your arteries, respectively. The higher number is called the systolic pressure, and the lower number is called the diastolic pressure.
Understanding Your Blood Pressure Reading
A normal blood pressure reading is typically around 120/80 mmHg (millimeters of mercury), but this can vary depending on your age, gender, and overall health. A reading of 112/73 is considered to be within the normal range for most adults. However, if your blood pressure is consistently higher than this, you may be at risk for developing hypertension (high blood pressure).
Why Does Blood Pressure Matter?
High blood pressure can be a serious health condition that increases your risk of heart disease, stroke, and other health problems. It can damage your blood vessels, making it harder for blood to flow through them. This can lead to a variety of complications, including heart attacks, kidney disease, and vision problems.
On the other hand, low blood pressure (hypotension) can also be a concern, particularly if it causes symptoms such as dizziness, fainting, or fatigue. If you have consistently low blood pressure, your doctor may want to investigate further to determine if there is an underlying medical condition.
How to Maintain Healthy Blood Pressure
If you want to maintain healthy blood pressure, there are several things you can do. First, you should try to maintain a healthy weight through diet and exercise. Eating a healthy diet that is low in sodium and high in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can also help. Additionally, you should limit your alcohol intake and avoid smoking.
Your doctor may also recommend medications to help control your blood pressure, particularly if it is consistently high. These medications can help reduce your risk of developing complications and improve your overall health.
Conclusion
Blood pressure is an important indicator of your overall health, and it is important to understand what your reading means. A reading of 112/73 is considered to be within the normal range for most adults, but if your blood pressure is consistently higher or lower than this, you should talk to your doctor. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle through diet, exercise, and other healthy habits can help you maintain healthy blood pressure and reduce your risk of developing complications.
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