Blood Pressure

1. Blood pressure is the measure of the force of blood against the walls of the arteries as it is pumped around the body by the heart. It is expressed as two numbers: systolic blood pressure (the higher number) measures the pressure in the arteries when the heart beats, while diastolic blood pressure (the lower number) measures the pressure in the arteries between heartbeats. 2. Normal blood pressure is generally considered to be a systolic pressure of less than 120 mmHg and a diastolic pressure of less than 80 mmHg. High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, is defined as a systolic pressure of 140 mmHg or higher and/or a diastolic pressure of 90 mmHg or higher. 3. There are several factors that can contribute to high blood pressure, including genetics, lifestyle habits, and medical conditions. Some common lifestyle factors that can affect blood pressure include diet, physical activity, alcohol consumption, and stress. Medical conditions that can cause high blood pressure include kidney disease, hormonal imbalances, and certain medications. 4. Treatment for high blood pressure may include lifestyle changes, such as eating a healthy diet and increasing physical activity, as well as medications to lower blood pressure. It is important to manage high blood pressure, as it can increase the risk of serious health problems, including heart attack, stroke, and kidney disease.