Blood pressure readings are routinely performed during a visit to a physician's office. Blood pressure screenings help doctors assess how well the heart is working and evaluate the patient's risk for cardiovascular disease.
Blood Pressure
Blood pressure is the force the blood exerts against the blood vessels as it travels through the body. The American Heart Association explains that blood pressure results from two distinct forces. The first force is that of the heart as it pushes blood into the arteries. The second force is the resistance the arteries exert in response to the flow of blood.
Systolic Pressure
The top number of a blood pressure reading is the systolic pressure, which reflects the pressure while the heart is contracting to pump blood to the body. The American Heart Association considers a systolic reading of 120 mm Hg, or millimeters of mercury, to be a normal reading.
Diastolic Pressure
The diastolic pressure, which is the bottom number, represents the pressure the blood exerts on the walls of the arteries between contractions when the heart is at rest. A diastolic reading of 80 mm Hg is considered to be a normal result.
References
- American Heart Association: Blood Pressure
- "Clinical Nursing Skills and Techniques"; A. Perry and P. Potter; 2006
