Blood pressure, considered a vital sign, is the pressure exerted on the wall of the arteries. In order for the heart to properly function, a pressure must be developed during each contraction. Blood pressure fluctuates constantly over the course of a day, readings being higher in the morning and lower in the evening. Many factors influence blood pressure as well as the ability to obtain an accurate reading.
Blood Pressure Numbers
Blood pressure consists of a higher and a lower number. The higher number is referred to as the "systolic" blood pressure. This is the pressure required for the heart to eject blood throughout the system during each contraction. The lower number is referred to as the "diastolic" blood pressure. After each contraction, the heart must fill up for the next one. The pressure at this stage is the diastolic pressure. An example of a blood pressure reading would be 122/82, or 122 over 82.
Blood pressure is recorded as a fraction in millimeters of mercury, or mmHg, explains the website Heart Healthy Living. A measurement of around 120/80 mmHg is optimal. Normal blood pressure ranges from 120 to 130 mmHg for systolic and 80 to 84 mmHg for diastolic. Closely monitoring blood pressure between 131 to 139 mmHg for systolic and 85 to 89 for diastolic is recommended. Blood pressure of 140 or above for systolic and 90 or above for diastolic is considered high.
How to Correctly Take Blood Pressure
When measuring blood pressure, there are several things to consider to make sure the readings are accurate. Heart Healthy Living recommends that smoking, as well as caffeine and alcohol, should be avoided for at least 30 minutes before the actual measurement since these can cause increases in blood pressure. Furthermore, a full bladder should be emptied because this can also affect the accuracy of readings.
Make sure the cuff size is correct. The fit can severely affect accuracy. After having the person sit and rest quietly for a few minutes, making sure his feet, arms and back are relaxed, the measurement can be taken. Since blood pressure fluctuates, taking the measurement two or three times is warranted.
Home Monitoring of Blood Pressure
Blood pressure should be monitored at least once a year. Getting a home monitoring system can help make sure blood pressure is kept under control. There are many devices on the market, and making a choice can be particularly difficult. Choosing a monitor for the upper arm achieves more accurate results than forearm or finger devices, says FamilyDoctor.org. Moreover, the device should be tested independently and approved for home use.
White Coat Hypertension
Experiencing high blood pressure in the doctor's office may not necessarily mean there is a problem. For some, visiting a doctor and getting blood pressure taken can be somewhat stressful, which leads to an increase in blood pressure. Often, when the measurements are done at home, readings tend to be normal and no treatment is required.
Common Activities and Their Effects on Blood Pressure
Common activities such as working, going to a meeting, commuting and walking can increase blood pressure between 12 and 20 mmHg, warns Heart Healthy Living. Generally speaking, any physical activity will increase blood pressure, so it is important that the proper preparation and precautions be taken to achieve an accurate reading.
