A blood pressure (BP) test is designed to measure how much pressure is required to pump blood
through your arteries. A BP test also determines the size and flexibility of the arteries.
Understanding the variability in blood pressure readings can help a person understand her own
reading. If you are a medical professional, you should use plain language to explain blood pressure readings and what they mean to your patient.
Step 1
Describe what a blood pressure measurement is. Blood pressure is measured in milliliters of mercury, shown as mmHg, to demonstrate systolic and diastolic blood pressure. This is why blood
pressure is given in two numbers (i.e. 120/80). These numbers represent systolic and diastolic
blood pressure, respectively. Systolic blood pressure measures the maximum pressure exerted when the heart contracts. Diastolic blood pressure measures the minimum pressure in the arteries when the heart is at rest.
Step 2
Explain the variance in results. Blood pressure is characterized as normal, low or high.
Step 3
Define normal results. A systolic BP less than 120 mmHG and a diastolic BP less than 80 mmHg
indicates blood pressure in the normal range.
Step 4
Define the conditions for high blood pressure, also called hypertension. A systolic BP of 140 to 159 mmHG and a diastolic BP of 90 to 99 mmHG indicates the possibility of mild hypertension. Minor lifestyle adjustments, such as avoiding fatty foods, can bring the blood pressure back to the normal range.
Step 5
Define the conditions for severe hypertension. A systolic BP of more than 160 mmHG and a diastolic BP of more than 100 mmHG indicates the possibility of severe hypertension. Exercise and adjusting eating habits can regulate the BP levels; however, medication may be needed to provide some initial stability.
Step 6
Define the conditions for low blood pressure, known as hypotension. A systolic BP less than 90 mmHG and a diastolic BP 25 mmHG lower than normal indicates the possibility of hypotension.
An increase in physical activity can increase the blood flow, raise the metabolism and bring the
BP levels back to the normal range.
Tips and Warnings
- Blood pressure readings can be influenced by a number of factors. A medical provider should take multiple readings to get the most accurate results. Provide the patient with the contact information for someone to call if they have additional questions.
