Blood pressure is the pressure that causes the blood to flow through your body from areas of high pressure into areas of low pressure. It goes from your arteries through your veins to your body’s organs.
Blood pressure readings are shown as two numbers, in the form systolic/diastolic blood pressure. An example of a blood pressure reading would be 120/80.
Systolic pressure is when the heart contracts and pumps blood into the arteries, while diastolic pressure is the pressure in the arteries when the heart relaxes after contraction.
Usually, systolic blood pressure tends to be between 90 and 120 millimetres of mercury (mm Hg) for most healthy adults. Normal diastolic blood pressure falls between 60 and 80 mm Hg.
Low blood pressure, also known as hypotension, is blood pressure that is so low that it is causing symptoms or signs due to the low flow of blood through the veins and arteries.
As a result of this, the vital organs such as the heart, brain and kidneys do not receive enough oxygen and nutrients and may become damaged and cease to function properly.
Common symptoms of low blood pressure are dizzy spells, fainting, feeling light-headed. Often, these symptoms tend to be more evident when a person is lying or sitting and then suddenly stands up.
Low blood pressure in itself it not a bad thing. As long as it is not low enough to cause problems and damage to the body organs, then low blood pressure is desirable. In fact, people with lower blood pressure are less likely to suffer from heart disease, renal (kidney disease) and are at a lower risk of strokes.
Unlike high blood pressure, which is defined on the basis of the blood pressure reading alone, low blood pressure is defined primarily by signs and symptoms of low blood flow.
Some people may have a blood pressure reading of 90/50 yet exhibit no signs or symptoms of low blood pressure such as fainting, dizziness, or light-headedness and as a result these individuals will not have low blood pressure. On the other hand, there may be people who have a blood pressure reading of 130/80 and may exhibit the symptoms and signs of low blood pressure if there blood pressure reading drops to 100/60.
Mark Mackay
http://www.articlesbase.com/health-articles/what-is-blood-pressure-11144.html
3 comments ↓
What are the numbers for a diagnosis of high blood pressure?
My husband took his blood pressure with an at home machine. His numbers have been 163/113 and 147/95. He argues with me that this is not high. Mine was 107/59 and mine is usually low.He refuses to go to a doctor and his has been high for a number of years. What are signs to look for that high blood pressure is affecting his organs and how long can it take to kill someone if left untreated. He is 48 years old. Thanks!!!
A blood pressure that is consistently above 140/90 is considered hypertension (high blood pressure).
You are right – your husband needs to see his doctor about this. Hypertension is called "The Silent Killer" for a very good reason. You can feel OK but have serious damage from long term, untreated hypertension. He is at an increased risk for heart disease, stroke, and kidney damage.
Unfortunately, it’s all too common for men to be afraid to go to the doctor! Try telling him that untreated hypertension is also a significant risk factor for erectile dysfunction – perhaps that will help.
I hope your husband appreciates you! Good luck.
References :
RN
Your doctor will diagnose high blood pressure (HBP) using the results of blood pressure tests. These tests will be done several times to make sure the results are correct. If your numbers are high, your doctor may have you return for more tests to check your blood pressure over time.
If your husband blood pressure is 140/90 mmHg or higher over time, your doctor will likely diagnose you with HBP. If you have diabetes or chronic kidney disease, a blood pressure of 130/80 mmHg or higher is considered HBP.
High blood pressure (HBP) itself usually has no symptoms. Rarely, headaches may occur.
You can have HBP for years without knowing it. During this time, HBP can damage the heart, blood vessels, kidneys, and other parts of the body.
Some people only learn that they have HBP after the damage has caused problems, such as coronary heart disease, stroke, or kidney failure.
Knowing your blood pressure numbers is important, even when you’re feeling fine. If your blood pressure is normal, you can work with your health care team to keep it that way. If your numbers are too high, you can take steps to lower them and control your blood pressure. This helps reduce your risk for complications.
References :
http://tinyurl.com/freebloodpressure
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