Guide to Interpreting Your Blood Pressure Levels

Understanding Your Blood Pressure Readings

The human body operates through a complex system, with the heart playing a vital role in maintaining overall health. Its primary function is to pump blood throughout the body, delivering essential nutrients and oxygen. This process creates pressure within the blood vessels, known as blood pressure. Maintaining this pressure within a healthy range is key to preventing health issues like heart disease.

High or low blood pressure are common concerns. Elevated blood pressure exceeds normal limits, increasing cardiovascular risks, while lower than normal pressure can cause dizziness or fainting. Monitoring and managing blood pressure are crucial for long-term wellness.

Blood Pressure Readings

A blood pressure measurement consists of two figures displayed together. The top number, called systolic pressure, indicates the maximum pressure in your arteries as the heart beats. The bottom number, diastolic pressure, measures the pressure when the heart rests between beats. Both are vital in determining your cardiovascular health.

Normal and Abnormal Ranges

Blood pressure categories are classified based on these readings. The key ranges include:

• Over 140 systolic: Signifies hypertension requiring immediate medical attention.
• Over 90 diastolic: Also indicates high blood pressure needing prompt care.
• Below 90 systolic: Reflects low blood pressure or hypotension.
• Below 60 diastolic: Indicates low blood pressure that may cause symptoms like dizziness.

Blood Pressure Classifications

Broadly, blood pressure levels fall into four categories:

• Less than or equal to 90/60: Low blood pressure; seek medical advice.
• Between 90/60 and 120/80: Ideal healthy range; maintain a healthy lifestyle.
• Between 120/80 and 140/90: Slightly elevated; lifestyle adjustments recommended.
• 140/90 and above: High blood pressure; medical intervention may be necessary.

How to Measure Blood Pressure

• Wrap a sphygmomanometer around your upper arm, ensuring the cuff is 1 inch above the elbow crease.
• Place the stethoscope’s bell lightly over the brachial artery below the cuff.
• Inflate the cuff to 180 mmHg, then slowly release pressure at about 3 mmHg per second.
• Listen for the first sound (Korotkoff) indicating systolic pressure and note the reading. Continue to listen until the sound disappears, which marks diastolic pressure.
• Repeat on the other arm for accuracy, comparing readings and noting any significant differences.

For more precise results, wait 1-2 minutes between measurements. Comparing your readings with standardized blood pressure charts helps monitor your health. If DIY measurement feels complex, consult a healthcare provider for professional assessment.