High or low blood pressure are problems that can be life threatening. Moreover, detecting abnormalities in blood pressure can be troublesome, since there are often no outward symptoms or warning signs. This makes learning the basic information about this topic and maintaining an optimum blood pressure extremely important.
Blood Pressure, Not Heart Rate
Blood pressure should not be confused with heart rate, as noted by the American Heart Association. Blood pressure refers to the force of the blood against the walls of arteries. Heart rate, on the other hand, simply denotes the number of heartbeats per minute. Blood pressure is measured using a device called a sphygmomanometer. The two numbers that result from the test are written like a fraction. The top number measures the systolic pressure, which is the pressure in blood vessels as the heart is pumping. The bottom number represents diastolic pressure, which is blood vessels pressure between heartbeats. The ideal blood pressure reading for most people is 120/80 or slightly below, according to National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute.
Why Blood Pressure Matters
If blood pressure is left unchecked at a level of 140/90 or above, there are several possible health consequences. High blood pressure damages the arteries and heart, leading to heart disease, fatty buildups and blockages, and congestive heart failure. Other associated disorders include vision loss, stroke, erectile dysfunction, kidney damage and memory loss. However, none of these are considered initial symptoms of high blood pressure, as noted by the American Heart Association. High blood pressure is still, for the most part, a symptom-free disorder, that only presents after long-term damage has occurred. Therefore, regular testing is vital.
Factors That Influence Blood Pressure
Blood pressure can change frequently throughout the day, as noted by MayoClinic.com. There are several factors that can affect it -- a person's stress level, physical or emotional tension, posture, nicotine use and amount of exercise are just some of the many things that can alter blood pressure, even if it is at an optimal level. In addition, a person's genes and family history are also influencing factors. Therefore, it is best to base one's blood pressure on an average of multiple readings instead of a single pressure test. To get the clearest picture, all the factors should be taken into account, such as lifestyle, diet, history and overall health.
Excessively Low Blood Pressure
Although it is good to keep blood pressure low, there is a limit to how far one should go. Low blood pressure, also known as hypotension, can cause dizziness or fainting, according to MayoClinic.com. Persons with a 90/60 blood pressure mark or below are generally considered to have low blood pressure. This condition may be a sign of serious neurological, heart or endocrine disorders. Individuals with extremely low blood pressure are at risk of going into life-threatening shock because their brain and other vital organs are deprived of nutrients and oxygen.
Staying Healthy
There are several steps that can help maintain an optimum blood pressure level, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. These include eating a healthy diet with lots of fruits and vegetables and eliminating foods high in sodium, fat and cholesterol, maintaining a healthy weight, eliminating smoking and nicotine use, moderating alcohol intake and engaging in moderate physical exercise for at least half an hour everyday.
