Blood pressure readings are one of the most important indicators of good health that we have, but many people do not understand exactly what they mean. Blood pressure is necessary in order to transport oxygen-rich blood throughout the body and back to the heart again so that the process can repeat itself. That being said, it is important to know what constitutes normal blood pressure levels so you can make sure they stay that way.
The Importance of the Blood Pressure Reading
Now, you may be asking yourself why it is so important to be aware of your blood pressure. After all, it must have a great deal of importance if you get your blood pressure checked every time you visit the doctor.
Your blood pressure damages your internal organs and in many ways can be seen as an early warning for other problems that may be developing. Many serious medical conditions develop over time, and high blood pressure readings are often the first indicator. High blood pressure levels will also cause the walls of the arteries to harden. This leads to narrow arteries that are easily clogged, which puts further strain on the heart and increases the risk of heart disease, kidney disease, and stroke. For example, a systolic blood pressure measurement of 160 or higher increases your chance of stroke by 400%.
Photo Credit: Jos van Galen
Photo Credit: Jos van Galen
Systolic vs Diastolic Blood Pressure
All blood pressure measurements are comprised of two separate numbers, written as a fraction such as 115 / 68. The two numbers represent two individual measurements, both of which are important to your health.
The top number is known as the systolic blood pressure. This refers to your blood pressure when it as its highest point of each heartbeat, as the ventricles contract and pump the blood out into your body.
The bottom number refers to your diastolic blood pressure. This is the point at which the blood pressure readings for each artery are at their lowest, just before the ventricles contract.
It is important to note that these are not static numbers. Your blood pressure will vary from heartbeat to heartbeat. They can be different in different parts of the body, and throughout the day. Hypertension is not diagnosed until you have shown high blood pressure levels for more than two consecutive office visits.
Simple Blood Pressure Readings Chart
The American Heart Association uses the following guidelines when classifying blood pressure readings.
| Category | Systolic Blood Pressure | Diastolic Blood Pressure |
| Normal | Less than 120 mm/Hg | Less than 80 mm/Hg |
| Pre-Hypertension | 121 to 139 mm/Hg | 81 to 89 mm/Hg |
| Stage 1 Hypertension | 140 to 159 mm/Hg | 90 to 99 mm/Hg |
| Stage 2 Hypertension | Greater than 160 mm/Hg | Greater than 100 mm/Hg |
Are Low Blood Pressure Readings Better?
To a point, yes, otherwise doctors would not place such a high emphasis on doing everything you can to naturally lower blood pressure levels, or prescribe medications when lifestyle modification is unsuccessful. For the majority of us, lowering blood pressure should be a medical priority.
That being said, it is also possible to have blood pressure that is too low. Sudden drops in blood pressure readings can lead to dizziness or fainting, and prolonged low blood pressure can cause oxygen deprivation to various organs, including the brain. Most of the time, this is caused by medication, infection, blood loss, endocrine problems, and some heart problems.
Improving Your Blood Pressure
If you have high blood pressure, there are many things that you can do before you begin turning to medications. Eating a healthy diet filled with fiber and green vegetables, getting plenty of cardiovascular exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, not smoking, and eating healthy foods such as garlic are all health tips that can help you to keep your blood pressure readings normal for a lifetime.
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Youu have a blank sheet when I click on “low blood sugar”. I would like to see your write up and if you have something I can take to keep from getting light headed.