A blood pressure monitor, measures pressures within the arteries at two different times. Systolic pressure, measures the pressure when the heart is pumping blood to the body through the arteries and diastolic pressure, measures the pressure within the arteries when the heart is receiving blood returning from the body.
Blood pressure measurement is listed with two numbers with 120/80 being regarded as normal. The 120 is the systolic blood pressure, which is when the heart is pushing blood through the arteries and 80 being the diastolic blood pressure when the heart is refilling.
If people with a normal blood reading pressure, the arterial walls are flexible. In patients with high blood pressure (hypertension), the artery walls are not as flexible and cause increased resistance to blood flow. The result of this requires the heart to beat more forcefully and creases the pressure of blood leaving the heart.
One major problem with hypertension is that there are no symptoms.
For some people who exercise and are in top physical condition, low blood pressure is a sign of good health and fitness. For many people, low blood pressure can cause dizziness and fainting or indicate serious heart, endocrine or neurological disorders. Severely low blood pressure can deprive the brain and other vital organs of oxygen and nutrients, leading to a life-threatening condition.
About 1 in 3 adults have high blood pressure, which increases the risk for heart disease and stroke.
High blood pressure is called the “silent killer” because it often has no warning signs or symptoms, and many people don’t realise they have it. That’s why it’s important to get your blood pressure checked regularly.
| Category | Systolic | Diastolic |
| Hypotension | < 90 | < 60 |
| Desired | 90 - 119 | 90 - 79 |
| Prehypertension | 120 - 139 | 80 - 89 |
| Stage 1 Hypertension | 140 - 159 | 90 - 99 |
| Stage 2 Hypertension | 160 - 179 | 100 - 109 |
| Hypertensive Crisis | >180 | >110 |
The above chart assumes the values are as a result of averaging blood pressure readings measured at two or more readings. The time of day affects the blood pressure.
The good news is that you can take steps to prevent high blood pressure, or to treat it if it is already high. If you would like further information on how to manage blood pressure. Contact us today.
HealthReach Blood Pressure Management Course
The HealthReach Blood Pressure Management Course is designed to work in a natural way to modify lifestyle choices selected to reduce the health risks associated with abnormal blood pressure.
The course shows in a practical way how to simply modify your current diet and exercise plan to deliver significant health benefits. Three meetings with our Nutritionist and a small amount of practical homework is all it takes.
The course is suitable for people on medication to reduce blood pressure and for those who have a family history of abnormal blood pressure.
To dine out more please contact us today.