Healthy Blood Pressure
Elevated blood pressures that are left untreated can lead to serious health problems. It’s been shown that high blood pressure is frequently a precursor to heart disease. Cardiovascular disease such as heart attack and heart failure are examples of potential health problems. Kidney failure and stroke are also a concern for those with untreated high blood pressure.
Many individuals aren’t even aware that they suffer from high blood pressure. There are additionally many people who, despite a diagnosis of high blood pressure, don’t participate in a treatment plan to keep it under control. The health consequences outlined above underscore the importance of maintaining a blood pressure below 140/90 mm Hg.
Basics of Blood Pressure Readings
The American Heart Association defines normal blood pressure as a systolic pressure below 120 and a diastolic pressure less than 80. This reading would be written as 120/80 mm Hg. Health professionals recommend that individuals maintain a blood pressure under 140/90 mm Hg at rest.
The first number is known as the systolic pressure and measures pressure in the arteries when the heart muscle squeezes. The second number is known as the diastolic pressure and is an indicator of the pressure in the arteries when the heart muscle is at rest between beats. The units of measurements used in blood pressure readings are millimeters of mercury.
Monitoring Blood Pressure
There are numerous automatic blood pressure devices on the market for individuals interested in monitoring their blood pressures at home. These devices are very affordable and easy to use. They can be purchased online, at medical supply stores, department stores, or at a pharmacy.
There is also manual blood pressure equipment available through the same sources. This option for monitoring blood pressure can be a little trickier than automatic devices but it’s a technique that can be learned with practice. A stethoscope is also needed when using a manual blood pressure cuff.
There are several tips that can assist in obtaining accurate readings and show patterns that may be of concern. Electronic blood pressure devices are frequently motion sensitive. Excessive movement while using the equipment could render inaccurate readings.
It’s good practice to use consistency when monitoring blood pressures. Use the same arm and assume the same position when using a blood pressure measuring device. Try to take blood pressures at the same time of day because there can be fluctuations throughout the day in pressures.
Tips for Maintaining Healthy Blood Pressure
Two of the most critical factors involved in maintaining a consistent normal blood pressure involve eating a healthy, low-fat diet and regular exercise. Experts also advise individuals to avoid salt. Sodium plays a very important role in fluid balance within the body. Excess fluid in the body can result in elevated blood pressures.
Avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption are additional keys to reducing the risk of high blood pressure. Nicotine causes blood vessels to constrict which reduces the flow of blood to the heart. This factor makes the heart work harder. Alcohol interferes with blood flow to the heart as well. There’s evidence that alcohol actually interferes with the flow of nutrient enriched blood to the heart.
