Introduction to blood pressure measurement?
Blood pressure is the force of blood against the walls of the arteries as the heart pumps it around the body. It is an important indicator of cardiovascular health and can help identify problems such as hypertension (high blood pressure) or hypotension (low blood pressure).
Blood pressure is typically measured using a sphygmomanometer, which consists of an inflatable cuff that is wrapped around the upper arm and a device called a manometer that measures the pressure in the cuff. The healthcare provider inflates the cuff and then slowly releases the pressure while listening to the pulse using a stethoscope. The point at which the pulse is first heard is the systolic pressure (the pressure in the arteries when the heart beats) and the point at which it disappears is the diastolic pressure (the pressure in the arteries when the heart is at rest between beats).
Blood pressure is expressed as a ratio of the systolic pressure over the diastolic pressure, such as 120/80 mmHg (millimeters of mercury). Normal blood pressure is typically considered to be around 120/80 mmHg, although this can vary depending on factors such as age, gender, and overall health. High blood pressure is generally defined as a reading of 140/90 mmHg or higher, while low blood pressure is usually considered to be below 90/60 mmHg.
Regular blood pressure monitoring is important for maintaining overall health and can help identify and manage potential cardiovascular issues. It is recommended that individuals have their blood pressure checked regularly, especially if they have risk factors for hypertension or other cardiovascular conditions.