Blood pressure is the force the blood exerts on the blood vessel walls as it travels through the body. The American Heart Association recommends that healthy adults have their blood pressure checked by their health care provider every two years.
Systolic and Diastolic Pressures
A patient screened for blood pressure receives the result in two numbers. The first number is the pressure of the blood while the heart is contracting, or the systolic pressure. The second number is the pressure of the blood while the heart is at rest, known as the diastolic pressure.
Optimal Reading
With respect to cardiovascular health, the American Heart Association defines a healthy blood pressure as 120/80 mm Hg or lower. However, any reading that is too low should be evaluated by a physician.
Heart Healthy Living
To maintain a healthy blood pressure, the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute recommends reducing sodium intake to less than 2.4 grams per day and to increase levels of physical activity. A tobacco-free lifestyle is key to keeping blood vessels healthy, especially in patients with a history of elevated blood pressure.
