2. Important information on blood pressure and its measurement
2.1. How does high/low blood pressure arise?
Your level of blood pressure is determined in the circulatory center of the brain and
adjusts to a variety of situations through feedback from the nervous system. To adjust
blood pressure, the strength and frequency of the heart (Pulse), as well as the width of
circulatory blood vessels is altered. Blood vessel width is effected by fine muscles in the
blood vessel walls.
Your level of arterial blood pressure changes periodically during heart activity: During the
“blood ejection” (Systole) the value is highest (systolic blood pressure value). At the end
of the heart’s “rest period” (Diastole) pressure is lowest (diastolic blood pressure value).
Blood pressure values must lie within certain normal ranges in order to prevent particular
diseases.
2.2. Which values are normal?
Blood pressure is too high
if at rest,
your diastolic pressure is above 90mmHg and/or the
systolic blood pressure is over 160mmHg. In this case, please consult your doctor
immediately. Long-term values at this level endanger your health due to continual damage
to the blood vessels in your body.
Should the systolic blood pressure values lie between 140mmHg and 160mmHg and/or
the diastolic blood pressure values lie between 90mmHg and 95mmHg. Consult your
doctor. Regular self-checks will be necessary.
With blood pressure values that are too low, (i.e. systolic values under 105mmHg and/or
diastolic values under 60mmHg), consult your doctor.
Even with normal blood pressure values, a regular self-check with your blood pressure
monitor is recommended. You can detect possible changes in your values early and react
appropriately.
If you are undergoing medical treatment to control your blood pressure, keep a record of
values along with time of day and date. Show these values to your doctor.
Never use the
results of your measurements to independently alter the drug doses prescribed
by your doctor.
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