When people talk about “taking your blood pressure,” it means they want to check two numbers that represent the force of the blood that your heart pumps through your body.
These two numbers are called systolic blood pressure and diastolic blood pressure. Both numbers are important but not always for the same reasons.
Your blood pressure is a measurement of the pressures in your arteries while your heart is beating (systolic) and between beats (diastolic). These values are important in diagnosing and managing high blood pressure.
This article looks at how blood pressure is taken, what blood pressure is, and what blood pressure results can mean.
Symptoms of High Blood Pressure
High blood pressure, or hypertension (approximately 130/80 for example), is quite common and develops over time. Usually, you don’t notice any symptoms. But even without symptoms, high blood pressure can cause damage to your blood vessels and organs, especially the brain, heart, eyes, and kidneys. Early detection is important with regular blood pressure readings.
Symptoms of high blood pressure include:
- Severe headaches.
- Nosebleed.
- Fatigue or confusion.
- Vision problems.
- Chest pain.
- Difficulty breathing.
- Irregular heartbeat.
- Blood in the urine.
Symptoms of Low Blood Pressure
Low blood pressure, or hypotension (approximately 90/60 for example), generally causes no problems and can be managed easily. However, extremely low blood pressure can be life-threatening and requires medical attention.
- Light-headedness or dizziness
- Feeling sick
- Blurred vision
- Generally feeling weak
- Confusion
- Fainting
How to Check Blood Pressure at Home?
The simplest way to measure your own blood pressure is to purchase an automated cuff. These types of blood pressure cuffs have a digital monitor that will display your blood pressure reading on a screen.
• Your blood pressure reading is written in a format like this: 120/80 (120 over 80)
• The systolic blood pressure reading is the higher number.
• The diastolic blood pressure reading is the lower number.
• The units are millimeters of mercury (mmHg).
Maintaining a healthy blood pressure level is important for overall health and well-being so it’s important to get it checked regularly. You can easily get your blood pressure check-up in Carshalton at Anna Pharmacy. Anna Pharmacy is a full-service pharmacy with trained professionals to help you with your medical needs.