As the heart beats, it create a pulsating force that keeps the blood moving through the circulatory system and the measurement of this force is what is called blood pressure. Within each beat, the heart also contracts which then sends a surge of pressure into the bloodstream, and this surge period is called systolic (sis-TAHL-ik) it is the first number in a blood pressure reading. After the surge period the heart then rests briefly and expands preparing for another beat. This expansion period is called diastolic (di-uh-STAHL-ik), it is the second number in a blood pressure reading. Thus, having a blood pressure reading of "120 over 80" simply means that the systolic pressure is 120 and the diastolic pressure is 80.
Generally, doctors agree that systolic readings of 120 to 140 and diastolic readings of 70 to 90 are normal. Slightly higher readings ranging from 140 to 159 and 90 to 94 are considered mild high blood pressure (mild hypertension) and readings from 160 to 179 and 94 to 114 signal moderate hypertension. A blood pressure reading that goes above these limits is then considered a serious health problem.
High blood pressure rarely causes any symptoms but it can do hidden damage to the arteries which can eventually lead to stroke, heart attack, heart disease, or kidney disease. Having a low blood pressure, on the other hand, can cause dizziness or fainting, especially when one suddenly stands up.
Since high blood pressure does not manifest any symptoms but can do serous problems to ones health it is then important for one to know his or her blood pressure numbers, even if one is feeling fine. If the blood pressure is found to be normal, then one can work with a health care team to keep it that way and if it is found that the blood pressure is too high, a treatment can then be obtained immediately to prevent damage to the body's organs.
Ones blood pressure varies with the time of day and the amount of stress one is experiencing. To determine the average or typical blood pressure, the doctor may therefore require for blood pressure readings be taken at various times during the day. Blood pressure reading can be done with the use of a standard blood pressure kit or monitor which is available at most drug and medical supply stores.
