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About Blood Pressure
What Is Blood Pressure?
Blood pressure is the force exerted by blood against the walls of the arteries.
Systolic pressure occurs when the heart contracts. Diastolic pressure occurs when
the heart expands. Blood pressure is measured in millimeters of mercury (mmHg).
One's natural blood pressure is represented by the fundamental pressure, which is
measured first thing in the morning while one is still at rest and before eating.
What Is Hypertension And How Is It Controlled?
Hypertension, which is abnormally high arterial blood pressure, if left unattended,
can cause many health problems including stroke and heart attack. Hypertension
can be controlled by altering one's lifestyle, avoiding stress, and with medication
under a doctor’s supervision.
To prevent hypertension or keep it under control:
Do not smoke
Exercise regularly
Reduce salt and fat intake
Have regular physical checkups
Maintain proper weight
Why Measure Blood Pressure At Home?
Blood pressure measured at a clinic or doctor's office may cause worry or
apprehension and can produce an elevated reading, 25 to 30 mmHg higher than
that measured at home. Home measurement reduces the effects of outside
influences on blood pressure readings, supplements the doctor's readings and
provides a more accurate, complete blood pressure history.
WHO Blood Pressure Classification
Standards to assess high blood
pressure, without regard to age,
have been established by the
World Health Organization
(WHO), as shown in the chart.
Blood Pressure Variations
An individual’s blood pressure
varies greatly on a daily and
seasonal basis. It may vary by 30
to 50 mmHg due to various
conditions during the day. In hypertensive individuals, variations are even more
pronounced. Normally, the blood pressure rises while at work or play and falls to
its lowest levels during sleep. So, do not be overly concerned by the results of
one measurement.
Take measurements at the same time every day using the procedure described
in this manual to get to know your normal blood pressure. Regular readings give
a more comprehensive blood pressure history. Be sure to note date and time
