Blood pressure is the force exerted on the artery walls that carry blood around the body. It is measured using two numbers -- systolic over diastolic. Systolic blood pressure is the maximum pressure when the heart beats and diastolic is the minimum pressure between beats. Abnormal blood pressure readings can be detrimental to an individual's health, but the signs and symptoms may not always be present so it is important check blood pressure on a regular basis.
Hypotension
Low blood pressure or hypotension in general is defined as a systolic below 90 mmHg and a diastolic below 60 mmHg, or 90/60, according to the Mayo Clinic. It can be caused by a variety of reasons, but the end result is a decreased supply of blood, oxygen and nutrients to the tissues of the body. Depending on the individual and how low the blood pressure is, symptoms of hypotension may not be present or noticeable. However, it most commonly leads to a feeling of dizziness or lightheadedness, particularly when a sudden drop of blood pressure occurs from standing up too fast. Other symptoms include blurred vision, confusion, nausea, cold, pale skin, fatigue, depression, thirst and a rapid, shallow breathing, according to the Mayo Clinic. Many instances of low blood pressure are not serious, but chronic or severely low blood pressure can lead to serious health complications and may indicate an underlying condition.
Hypertension
Hypertension or high blood pressure is defined as a systolic above 140 mmHg and a diastolic above 90 mmHg, or 140/90, according to the American Heart Association. It is serious condition that can occur for several years or indefinitely without any signs or symptoms. Many conditions and lifestyle choices can cause hypertension such as a high-salt diet, obesity, diabetes and medications to name a few. Less severe hypertension may cause a mild or dull headache and an increased frequency of nosebleeds, according to the Mayo Clinic. Severe hypertension may cause confusion, nausea, ringing in the ears, vision problems, fatigue and an irregular heartbeat.
Considerations
Adults should have their blood pressure checked at least every two years and more often when abnormal readings occurred in the past, according to the Mayo Clinic. Abnormal blood pressure readings can largely be prevented through lifestyle changes. Individuals with low blood pressure should limit alcohol intake, drink plenty of fluids and eat a healthy diet. To help prevent high blood pressure, individuals should limit salt in the diet, manage stress, avoid smoking and excessive alcohol consumption, increase physical activity and maintain a healthy weight, according to the website Family Doctor.
