What is Blood Pressure?
Simply put, blood pressure is a measure of the force that your heart uses to pump blood around your body.
Why is it important?
Blood pressure is an important vital sign as it signals a proper blood flow from the heart to all the organs and tissues.
How is it measured?
Blood pressure is measured in units of millimetres of mercury (mmHg). It is always given in pairs, with the upper(systolic) value given first followed by the lower(diastolic) value. The device used to measure these values and in general to measure blood pressure is called a sphygmomanometer.
What are the normal levels?
In a healthy adult the systolic under 130 mmHg and diastolic under 90 mmHg is generally considered a normal level.
What causes high blood pressure ?
Genetics may factor into one’s susceptibility to high blood pressure; the Center for Disease Control estimates that familial influence is a contributing element due to the commonality in environments, risk factors, and other elements. Age, gender and ethnicity are also likely to be influencing determinants. Diet and exercise contribute significantly to the risk of high blood pressure, along with behavioural facets such as smoking, regular alcohol consumption, and illicit drug use. In some cases, high blood pressure may be a result of pre-existing chronic conditions or can occur during pregnancy.
What are the symptoms of high blood pressure?
Among most people high blood pressure usually shows no symptoms, despite having it for years. Some may experience headaches, shortness of breath and even nosebleeds.
When to consult a doctor?
A regular screening will determine when a doctor should be consulted, in cases where the blood pressure in elevated for extended periods of time.
What are the types of high BP?
Elevated Blood Pressure – Ranges between 120 to 129 mmHg and the bottom number is below 80 mmHg.
Stage 1 Hypertension – The top number ranges from 130 to 139 mmHg or the bottom number between 80 to 89 mmHg
Stage 2 Hypertension – Top number is above 140 mmHg or the bottom number is above 90 mmHG.
What are the effects of high blood pressure?
When blood pressure is unchecked or ignored it might lead more complications like heart attacks, strokes, aneurysms, heart failures, eye problems and in rare cases can also lead to memory issue or even dementia.
What are the preventive measures?
A healthy diet, regular exercise, limit on alcohol and a proper sleep regiment have been helpful in curbing high blood pressure.
What causes low blood pressure?
It is widely acknowledged that low blood pressure can be caused by a variety of medical conditions, including pregnancy, heart-related problems, endocrine disorders, dehydration, blood loss due to trauma, septicemia, anaphylaxis and inadequate vitamin intake. In addition, certain medications have also been attributed to decreased blood pressure.
What are symptoms of low blood pressure?
The most common hypotension symptoms include vision related issues, dizziness, fatigue, trouble concentrating and nausea.
When to consult a doctor?
When any of symptoms are evident a doctor consultation is required.
What are the types of Low Blood Pressure?
According to Mayo Clinic,
Orthostatic hypotension (postural hypotension). This is a sudden drop in blood pressure when standing from a sitting position or after lying down. Causes include dehydration, long-term bed rest, pregnancy, certain medical conditions and some medications. This type of low blood pressure is common in older adults.
- Postprandial hypotension. This drop in blood pressure occurs 1 to 2 hours after eating. It’s most likely to affect older adults, especially those with high blood pressure or autonomic nervous system diseases such as Parkinson’s disease. Eating small, low-carbohydrate meals, drinking more water, and avoiding alcohol might help reduce symptoms.
- Neurally mediated hypotension. This is a blood pressure drop that happens after standing for long periods. This type of low blood pressure mostly affects young adults and children. It might result from miscommunication between the heart and the brain.
- Multiple system atrophy with orthostatic hypotension. Also called Shy-Drager syndrome, this rare disorder affects the nervous system that controls involuntary functions such as blood pressure, heart rate, breathing and digestion. It’s associated with having very high blood pressure while lying down.
What are the effects of Low Blood Pressure?
Low blood pressure can cause dizziness, weakness, fainting and injury from falls.
What are the preventive measures?
More water consumption, less alcohol, more attention to body positions, eat small low carb meals at regular intervals and exercise.
