What is Blood Pressure?

Everyone has blood pressure. It is the force of blood pumping against the walls of your arteries. Your heart creates this force as it sends blood through your blood vessels to all parts of your body. This blood is full of oxygen and other nutrients that your body needs.

What is High Blood Pressure?

Normal or average blood pressure range is lower than 140/90. Desirable is 120/80 or lower. You may have high blood pressure if it stays over 140/90 for three consecutive readings. The higher the blood pressure, the harder the heart works to move blood through the body.

How is Blood Pressure Measured?

Your blood pressure reading measures the force or pressure of the blood flowing through the vessels. This reading has two numbers, one on top and one on bottom. Example: 120/80 - or - "120 over 80"

The top number is your systolic blood pressure, measuring the force while your heart beats. A normal systolic pressure for a healthy person is lower than 140.

The bottom number is your diastolic blood pressure. It measures the force of blood while your heart is at rest. A normal diastolic pressure is lower than 90.

Managing High Blood Pressure

• Take medications, if prescribed by your physician. These will help lower your blood pressure and keep it low.
• Lose weight. This also helps lower blood pressure.
• Eat healthier. Decrease the amount of salt and fat in your diet.
• Exercise. Get your body and heart in shape. The stronger your heart is the more powerful its pumping ability.
• Reduce stress. Stress can raise your blood pressure.
• Quit smoking. This prevents more damage to your heart, blood vessels and organs.
• Have your blood pressure checked regularly as recommended by your physician.

What causes Blood Pressure elevations?

• Blood pressure tends to rise with age, unless you take steps to prevent or control it.
• Certain types of medical problems, like chronic thyroid disease, sleep apnea and kidney disease, can cause your blood pressure to rise.
• Certain medications, such as asthma medicines and cold-relief products, also can raise your blood pressure. Other medications, like birth control pills and hormone replacement therapy can cause blood pressure to rise for some women.
• Caffeine can raise blood pressure temporarily, but should not be considered the cause if high blood pressure becomes typical.
• Stress can make blood pressure go up for a while and is thought to contribute to chronic high blood pressure.