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What’s The Ideal Blood Pressure

How To Take Blood Pressure

What Is An Ideal Blood Pressure Reading?

You can take your blood pressure at home using a wrist blood pressure monitor or an upper arm cuff blood pressure monitor. Experts typically recommend upper arm cuffs because they are the most accurate. Upper arm cuffs can come with either a manual or digital monitor. Both work well, but if youre measuring your blood pressure on your own regularly, a digital one will likely be easiest to use correctly.

To take your blood pressure accurately with a digital upper arm cuff, start by sitting quietly in an upright position for a few minutes, allowing your body a moment to relax. Be mindful to uncross your legs and ankles, as well as use comfortable support for your back.

With the monitor sitting on a table in front of you, place your arm next to itat approximately heart leveland place the cuff around your bare upper arm about one inch above your elbow. Secure the cuff so that you can only slide a fingertip under the top edge.

Next, simply turn on the monitor, press the start button, and take normal breaths as the cuff inflates and deflates, measuring your blood pressure and producing your reading on the screen.

How Is Blood Pressure Measured And Diagnosed

Your blood pressure is measured using a machine called a sphygmomanometer. It will usually have an inflatable rubber cuff that goes around the top half of your arm and is connected to a measuring unit.

For manual sphygmomanometers, a small handheld air pump inflates the cuff. This is done by a machine for automated sphygmomanometers. Once its fully inflated, an air valve slowly releases the pressure in the cuff.

This creates a reading with two numbers that are written down with one number on top of the other e.g. 120/80 mm Hg.

  • The top number is your systolic blood pressure
  • The bottom number is your diastolic blood pressure .
  • Where Can I Learn How To Take My Blood Pressure Myself

    In Germany and other countries, people with high blood pressure can attend patient education courses that teach a number of things, including how to measure your blood pressure. As part of specialized disease management programs for people who have narrow coronary arteries , statutory health insurers offer additional healthcare services. These include patient education about high blood pressure. Some doctors practices dont offer these courses, though.

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    Choosing A Blood Pressure Monitor

    If you’re planning to take your blood pressure at home, it’s important to have a reliable blood pressure monitor. The AHA recommends an automatic, cuff-style, bicep monitor, but there are other options.

    When selecting a blood pressure monitor, consider the following:

    • Fit: To ensure a proper fit, measure around your upper arm and choose a monitor that comes with the correct size cuff.
    • Number of people: If more than one person will be using the monitor, make sure to choose one that fits everyone.
    • Features: Some blood pressure monitors offer extra tech features, like Bluetooth and app connectivity. If you don’t think you’ll benefit from these extras, go ahead and choose one that is efficient, easy to use, and more affordable.
    • Budget: High-quality blood pressure monitors vary dramatically in price, from around $25 to well over $100. Keep in mind that a good monitor is a great investment and that you will be using it daily for several years.
    • Other considerations: The AHA notes that when selecting a blood pressure monitor for a senior, pregnant person, or child, you should make sure it is validated for these conditions.

    If you need help selecting an at-home device, check out these blood pressure monitors, which were vetted by the Verywell team based on the above criteria.

    Can High Blood Pressure Affect Pregnancy

    Blood Pressure Chart and 5 keys to healthy Blood Pressure

    High blood pressure complicates about 10% of all pregnancies. There are several different types of high blood pressure during pregnancy and they range from mild to serious. The forms of high blood pressure during pregnancy include:

    Chronic hypertension: High blood pressure which is present before pregnancy.

    Gestational hypertension: High blood pressure in the latter part of pregnancy.

    Preeclampsia: This is a dangerous condition that typically develops in the latter half of pregnancy and results in hypertension, protein in the urine and generalized swelling in the pregnant person. It can affect other organs in the body and cause seizures .

    Chronic hypertension with superimposed preeclampsia: Pregnant people who have chronic hypertension are at increased risk for developing preeclampsia.

    Your provider will check your blood pressure regularly during prenatal appointments, but if you have concerns about your blood pressure, be sure to talk with your provider.

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    Blood Pressure Readings Explained

    What do the numbers mean?

    Everyone would like to have healthy blood pressure. But what exactly does that mean?

    When your doctor takes your blood pressure, its expressed as a measurement with two numbers, with one number on top and one on the bottom , like a fraction. For example, 120/80 mm Hg.

    The top number refers to the amount of pressure in your arteries during the contraction of your heart muscle. This is called systolic pressure.

    The bottom number refers to your blood pressure when your heart muscle is between beats. This is called diastolic pressure.

    Both numbers are important in determining the state of your heart health.

    Numbers greater than the ideal range indicate that your heart is working too hard to pump blood to the rest of your body.

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    A Look At Ingredients

    For centuries, marshmallows have been utilized to manage numerous health issues. According to historical truths, marshmallow is an indigenous natural herb growing in parts of Europe and Africa. Researchers claim marshmallow root is a natural mucilage rich in pectin, anti-oxidants, Quercetin, amino acids, and other substances. According to Arteris Plus maker, inflammations are the substantial reasons for heart problems. Pure marshmallow roots reduce respiratory system inflammations and lower lymph nodes swellings. In addition, the antioxidant property of marshmallows protects your system from chronic infections in the gastrointestinal system, urinary tract, and skin. Likewise, John Mayers claims that marshmallow roots can decrease LDL levels, thus enhancing heart health and wellness.

    Passion Flower is an American indigenous herbal plant though it grows in most parts of the globe today. According to Arteris Plus developer, the passion flower is an efficient antidepressant that boosts relaxation and avoids hypertension. Furthermore, passion flower is medically proven to combat persistent migraines and headaches, which can enhance your rest quality. Edulilic acid is a substance that naturally occurs in passionflower and can help broaden the blood arteries for much better blood flow. On top of that, the passionflower compounds can reduce toxic levels in your system, which also enhances blood circulation.

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    High Blood Pressure And Daily Activity

    Check with your doctor before starting a new activity or increasing your level or intensity. Be active safely. Build up your levels of activity gradually.

    Try to do at least 30 to 45 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity on most, if not all, days of the week. This can be done in bouts of 10 minutes or longer, if that is more convenient.

    Physical activity is any form of bodily movement performed by our large muscle groups. Moderate-intensity physical activity , such as brisk walking or cycling, is enough to provide health benefits.

    Walking is a great activity for all ages. You may like to join one of the Heart Foundations community walking groups.

    Some types of exercises, such as body presses and lifting heavy weights, can raise your blood pressure. Avoid these if you have high blood pressure.

    High Blood Pressure In Adults

    What is a normal blood pressure reading?

    Healthy blood pressure in adults is a reading below 120 systolic and 80 diastolic. Blood pressure between 120 to 129 systolic and under 80 diastolic is considered elevated. Elevated blood pressure means you have a greater risk of developing high blood pressure later on. Your doctor may suggest eating less salt, eating a heart healthy diet, or living a more active lifestyle.

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    How To Use A Home Blood Pressure Monitor

    • Be still. Dont smoke, drink caffeinated beverages or exercise within 30 minutes before measuring your blood pressure. Empty your bladder and ensure at least 5 minutes of quiet rest before measurements.
    • Sit correctly.Sit with your back straight and supported . Your feet should be flat on the floor and your legs should not be crossed. Your arm should be supported on a flat surface with the upper arm at heart level. Make sure the bottom of the cuff is placed directly above the bend of the elbow. Check your monitors instructions for an illustration or have your healthcare provider show you how.
    • Measure at the same time every day. Its important to take the readings at the same time each day, such as morning and evening. It is best to take the readings daily however ideally beginning 2 weeks after a change in treatment and during the week before your next appointment.
    • Take multiple readings and record the results. Each time you measure, take two or three readings one minute apart and record the results using a tracker. If your monitor has built-in memory to store your readings, take it with you to your appointments. Some monitors may also allow you to upload your readings to a secure website after you register your profile.
    • Dont take the measurement over clothes.
    and/or HIGHER THAN 120

    Note: A diagnosis of high blood pressure must be confirmed with a medical professional. A doctor should also evaluate any unusually low blood pressure readings.

    Variations In Blood Pressure

    Your blood pressure changes to meet your bodys needs. If a reading is high, your doctor may measure your blood pressure again on several separate occasions to confirm the level.

    Your doctor may also recommend that you measure your blood pressure at home or have a 24-hour recording with a monitoring device.

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    Healthy And Unhealthy Blood Pressure Ranges

    Learn whats considered normal, as recommended by the American Heart Association.

    Blood Pressure Chart

    SYSTOLIC mm Hg and/or DIASTOLIC mm Hg
    NORMAL
    HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE STAGE 1 130 139
    HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE STAGE 2 140 OR HIGHER
    HYPERTENSIVE CRISIS HIGHER THAN 180 and/or HIGHER THAN 120

    Note: A diagnosis of high blood pressure must be confirmed with a medical professional. A doctor should also evaluate any unusually low blood pressure readings.

    The five blood pressure ranges as recognized by the American Heart Association are:

    How To Lower Your Blood Pressure

    Top 10 Best Blood Pressure Monitors Buying Guide and ...

    You might be worried by your high blood pressure, but the good news is that it can be lowered to optimal levels with some proper foresight.

    Although medication may be prescribed by a doctor in order to lower blood pressure, the safest course of action is to make long lasting lifestyle changes.

    Diet is extremely important in this context. First and foremost, patients suffering from hypertension should be mindful of their salt intake. In fact, you may want to cut it out entirely out of your diet. Just remember that most of the salt you eat is actually found in products that are already prepared, such as breakfast cereals, ready-made meals, and bread. Be sure to check the nutritional facts label on the products you select from the supermarket.

    Eating more fruits and vegetables can also help to lower blood pressure. A healthy amount is five portions of fruit and vegetables per day, where a portion weighs roughly 80 grams. Watch out for added salts when buying frozen or tinned fruits and vegetables from your local supermarket.

    A healthy diet will also help you to mitigate another important risk factor for hypertension: being overweight. Exercising and a low-calorie diet can help you reduce your weight to more healthy levels your blood pressure drops along with those extra pounds. Additionally, doing cardio also keeps the heart healthy.

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    How To Properly Interpret Blood Pressure Levels

    Because blood pressure is different for every person, there are no specific limits except for excessively high blood pressure values for when it is advisable to see a doctor. However, if the levels rise excessively or the person has symptoms such as shortness of breath, sensations of pressure in the chest, dizziness, or nausea, they should seek medical attention immediately.

    What Is Normal Blood Pressure According To Age

    Blood pressure is the pressure of the blood within the arteries. It is produced primarily by the contraction of the heart muscle. Its measurement is recorded by two numbers. The first is measured after the heart contracts and is highest. The second is measured before the heart contracts and the lowest. A blood pressure cuff is used to measure the pressure. Elevation of blood pressure is called “hypertension“.

    The chart shows normal blood pressure according to age both male and female. Diastolic blood pressure and Systolic Blood Pressure are included in the chart.

    Normal Blood Pressure By Age

    Age

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    What Are The Best Ways To Lower Blood Pressure

    Physical activity is no doubt one of the fastest, most natural ways to lower your blood pressure. Walking for even just half an hour each day can bring your blood pressure down. Of course, the more exercise you do, such as riding a bike, the greater the results you’ll see.

    You should also feast on more berries, bananas, beets, kiwis, and watermelon. Dark chocolate, oats, and leafy green veggies are also BP-friendly food choices.

    As for healthy beverages, try reaching out for unsalted tomato juice. Researchers found that one cup a day can improve both SBP and DBP. The scientists also say it can help reduce bad cholesterol levels.

    Juice made from beets, prunes, and berries, as well as tea and skim milk, may also benefit your blood pressure. You should also try oat milk, a healthy, delicious alternative to dairy milk.

    What Is A Normal Blood Pressure Reading

    What is normal blood pressure?

    Do you know what your blood pressure reading should be?

    Blood pressure is the force at which your heart pumps blood around the body and is recorded with 2 numbers. The higher of the numbers is an indication of when the heart is pumping the lower number is the resistance to the blood flow in the blood vessels. Its widely publicised that high and low blood pressure can induce health problems, but what about healthy blood pressure?

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    How Is High Blood Pressure Diagnosed

    To figure out your blood pressure rate, your health care provider takes blood pressure readings at different times. You need more than 1 reading because blood pressure changes depending on what you are doing and varies during the day. For example, your blood pressure can increase when you are nervous or in a hurry.

    If your blood pressure is high while with your health care provider but normal otherwise, you may just be nervous. This effect is common. Even people already being treated for high blood pressure go through this.

    What matters is what happens to your blood pressure outside your health care providers office. If you have high blood pressure, you should use a home blood pressure monitor. Ask your health care provider how to use the monitor correctly.

    What Your Blood Pressure Numbers Mean

    Blood pressure is the force that blood applies to the walls of arteries as its pumped throughout the body.

    Your arteries are built to withstand some pressure, but theres a limit to what they can handle, says Dr. Nasir.

    This is why blood pressure is measured and segmented based on how it affects our health. The four blood pressure categories are:

    • Normal blood pressure: Lower than 120/80 mmHg
    • Elevated blood pressure: Between 120-129/80 mmHg
    • High blood pressure, stage 1: Between 130-139/80-90 mmHg
    • High blood pressure, stage 2: 140/90 mmHg or higher

    Only normal blood pressure is considered healthy. Having elevated or high blood pressure damages your heart and arteries by:

    • Forcing your heart to pump harder. Over time, this causes heart muscle to thicken, making it harder for the heart to fill with and pump blood.
    • Narrowing and hardening your arteries. This can limit the normal flow of blood.

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    What Are The Symptoms Of High Blood Pressure

    The only way you can know for sure if you have high blood pressure is by having a nurse or doctor measure it. Monitoring your blood pressure at home also helps keep your blood pressure in check. Most often, high blood pressure is “silent,” meaning it has no other signs to warn you, according to the CDC.

    Blood Pressure Is Diagnosed By A Doctor Using A Blood Pressure Machine The Process Includes:

    what is normal blood pressure?
    • Being seated in a chair with your back supported
    • Putting your feet flat on the floor and supporting your arm at heart level
    • Remaining quiet for five minutes and refraining from talking

    It is very important to use the proper size cuff when taking a blood pressure reading. Failure to do so will lead to inaccuracies. A cuff that is too small for the arm circumference will give an artificially high reading. A cuff that is too large will give too low a reading. Initially, blood pressure should be measured in each arm to make sure both readings are the same. The arm with the higher readings should then be targeted for all future blood pressure checks.

    If your blood pressure readings are high, your doctor may ask that you return for additional measurements on different days because blood pressure can vary widely from day to day.

    Your doctor will most likely diagnose you with high blood pressure if you have several readings of 140/90 or higher. If you have readings of 130/80 or higher and are diabetic or have chronic kidney disease, you are likely to be diagnosed with high blood pressure.

    What can I do if I am diagnosed with high blood pressure?

    Eat healthy food

    Make sure your diet emphasizes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and low-fat dairy foods. An easy tool for planning health meals is the Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension diet which can help you reduce your systolic blood pressure by 8-14 mm Hg.

    Achieve and Maintain a Healthy Weight

    Increase Physical Activity

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