How to Explain a Blood Pressure Reading
Blood pressure readings measure the amount of pressure exerted by the heart when it contracts to pump blood out of the heart. In addition, a reading also denotes the amount of pressure when the heart rests between beats. These two numbers combine to provide doctors with an accurate reading of the function of the heart. If the numbers are too high, it's the first indication of a possible condition called high blood pressure or hypertension.
Instructions
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Establish the current blood pressure of the individual. Two numbers will appear on the blood pressure monitor. Optimum blood pressure is 120/80 mmHg. Both figures are measured in millimeters of mercury (mmHg), the common unit of measurement for blood pressure.
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Measure the systolic blood pressure. The upper number of the blood pressure reading represents the amount of pressure generated as the heart pumps blood and contracts to move blood out of the heart. Systolic blood pressure should be at or below 120 mmHg. In the very simplest terms, systolic pressure measures the pressure created by contractions of the heart.
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Measure the diastolic blood pressure. This lower number of the blood pressure reading reflects the amount of pressure on the arteries of the heart while at rest. The diastolic blood pressure reading should register at or below 80 mmHg. Simply put, diastolic pressure readings measure the heart's pressure at rest.
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Compare the current blood pressure reading against previous readings. The optimum adult reading falls below 120/80 mmHg. Any number above this baseline may indicate hypertension (chronic high blood pressure). Pre-hypertension blood pressure readings fall between 120 and 139 mmHg for the systolic (upper) figure and between 80 and 89 mmHg for the diastolic (lower) number. Any blood pressure reading above 140/90 mmHg is considered high and requires treatment with medications, diet and lifestyle changes.
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Tips & Warnings
Blood pressure changes continually based on many factors. Stress, movements, temperature, posture (crossed legs), medications and activity can all affect blood pressure. It is best to measure blood pressure at the same time each day to provide the same situation for comparative purposes. Using the same cuff or measuring device can also provide as similar a situation as possible to increase measurement accuracy. Make sure the blood pressure cuff is the correct size for you. A blood pressure cuff that is too large or small will result in an inaccurate reading.
Resources
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