Understanding Blood Pressure
What is blood pressure?
Blood Pressure is the result of two forces; one is created by the heart as it
“contracts” to pump blood into the arteries and through the circulatory system,
the other is generated by the arteries as they “relax” after the pumping phase
has ended.
What is the difference between the systolic and diastolic measurements?
Systolic blood pressure represents the highest pressure at the height of the
heart's contraction. Diastolic pressure is the lowest pressure when the heart is
resting after the pumping phase.
Is my blood pressure normal?
In general, a lower blood pressure reading is better than a higher reading
unless it causes some uncomfortable or dangerous symptoms such as fainting.
Always talk to your physician about your blood pressure and find out your
“normal” blood pressure range. The following blood pressure classification
diagram released by the World Health Organization can be a reference for
evaluating your blood pressure readings.
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Source: World Health Organization - International Society of Hypertension Guidelines for the
Management of Hypertension Guidelines Subcommittee. Journal of Hypertension 1999,17:151~183
Fluctuation and Variation in Blood Pressure
The following chart shows possible
blood pressure fluctuations during
a 24hr period.