Blood Pressure Measurement
Blood circulates through our bodies through a network of blood vessels known as the vascular system. The heart acts as a pump, continually pushing blood around the system.
When blood pressure is measured, blood pressure monitors record two figures, for example: 120/80 mmHg. The higher number is the systolic blood pressure. This is a measure of the highest pressure in the system which happens with each contraction of the heart. The lower figure, diastolic pressure, is the pressure in the system between heartbeats. If either or both of these levels is too high, hypertension is present.
In general terms, concern is raised when the systolic pressure is above 140 and the diastolic above 90. Readings above 140/90 mmHg are considered hypertension and are further classified as mild, moderate or severe.
Sometimes, hypertension occurs as a result of other diseases, particularly kidney disease. But in many cases there is no obvious cause.
No comments:
Post a Comment