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1. 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 fundamental pressure, which displays resting heart rate when measured first thing in the morning and
before eating.
2. What is hypertension and how is it controlled?
Hypertension, an abnormally high arterial blood pressure, if left unattended, can cause many health
problems including stroke and heart attack. Hypertension can be controlled by altering lifestyle, avoiding
stress, and with medication under a doctor's supervision.
3. Why measure blood pressure at home?
Blood pressure measured at a clinic or doctor's office may cause apprehension and produce an elevated
reading, 25 to 30 mmHg higher, than when 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.
4. WHO blood pressure classification
Standards for assessment of high blood pressure, without
regard to age, have been established by the World Health
Organization (WHO) and are shown in chart to the right.
5. Blood pressure variations
An individual's blood pressure varies greatly on a daily and
seasonal basis. It may vary by 30 mmHg 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. 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 learn your normal blood
pressure. To develop a comprehensive blood pressure history,
take multiple readings without changing measurement habits
or practices.
Be sure to note both date and time when recording your blood
pressure. Consult your doctor to interpret your blood pressure
data.
About Blood Pressure
