22
Blood Pressure
Blood pressure is the force of blood pushing against the walls of arteries. It is typically
measured in millimeters of mercury (mmHg.) Systolic blood pressure is the maximum
force exerted against blood vessel walls each time the heart beats. Diastolic blood
pressure is the force exerted on blood vessels when the heart is resting between beats.
An individual's blood pressure frequently changes throughout the course of a day.
Excitement and tension can cause blood pressure to rise, while drinking alcohol and
bathing can lower blood pressure. Certain hormones like adrenaline (which your
body releases under stress) can cause blood vessels to constrict, leading to a rise in
blood pressure.
If these measuring numbers become too high, it means the heart is working harder
than it should
.
Summary of Contents for KS 540
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