Blood pressure is the force of blood pushing against the walls of the arteries, which carry blood away from the heart to the rest of the body. It is measured in millimeters of mercury (mmHg) and is typically expressed as two values: systolic pressure over diastolic pressure. The systolic pressure is the higher of the two and represents the force exerted on the artery walls when the heart beats, pumping blood. The diastolic pressure is the lower value, indicating the pressure on the arteries when the heart is at rest between beats.
Normal blood pressure is generally considered to be around 120/80 mmHg. However, blood pressure can fluctuate throughout the day and can be influenced by factors such as stress, physical activity, and diet. Persistent high blood pressure, or hypertension, is a medical condition that can lead to serious health problems, including heart disease and stroke.
Regular monitoring of blood pressure is essential for maintaining cardiovascular health. Lifestyle modifications such as a balanced diet, regular exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, limiting alcohol intake, and managing stress can contribute to blood pressure control. In some cases, medication may be prescribed by healthcare professionals to help manage high blood pressure.