What do the numbers mean in a blood pressure reading?
Systolic is the top number (the higher of the two numbers). It measures the pressure in the arteries when the heart beats (when the heart muscle contracts).
Diastolic is the bottom number (the lower of the two numbers). It measures the pressure in the arteries between heartbeats (when the heart muscle is resting between beats and refilling with blood).
Typically more attention is given to the top number (the systolic blood pressure) as a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease for people over 50.
In most people, systolic blood pressure rises steadily with age due to increasing stiffness of large arteries, long-term build-up of plaque and increased incidence of cardiac and vascular disease. Blood pressure should normally be less than 120/80 mm Hg (less than 120 systolic AND less than 80 diastolic) for an adult age 20 or over.
If your blood pressure is normal, maintaining or adopting a healthy lifestyle can prevent or delay the onset of high blood pressure or other health problems. If your blood pressure isn’t normal, a healthy lifestyle, supplements or medication can help bring it under control and reduce your risk of life-threatening complications.
~ Nurse @ Innovative Directions in Health