Normal blood pressure refers to the average range of pressure exerted by the blood on the walls of arteries and veins as the heart pumps blood throughout the body. It is a fundamental measure of cardiovascular health, which indicates how effectively the heart is functioning and how well blood vessels are circulating blood. Blood pressure is measured in millimeters of mercury (mmHg) and is recorded using two numbers: the systolic pressure over the diastolic pressure.
A normal blood pressure reading is typically considered to be around 120/80 mmHg. The first number, systolic pressure, represents the highest pressure in the arteries during the heart's contraction or when it pumps blood. The second number, diastolic pressure, refers to the lowest pressure in the arteries when the heart is at rest between beats.
Maintaining a normal blood pressure is crucial for overall well-being as high or low blood pressure can pose health risks. High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, is when the pressure consistently exceeds the normal range. This condition can lead to damage to blood vessels, organs, and increase the risk of heart disease, stroke, and other cardiovascular diseases. On the other hand, low blood pressure, or hypotension, when it falls below the normal range, can cause dizziness, lightheadedness, and even result in reduced blood flow to vital organs.
Regular monitoring and management of blood pressure are key steps in maintaining good health, and lifestyle modifications such as a balanced diet, regular exercise, stress reduction, and limited alcohol consumption are recommended for maintaining normal blood pressure levels. In certain cases, medication may also be prescribed by a healthcare professional to regulate blood pressure.
