Measuring Blood Pressure
Each time your heart beats, it pumps blood into your arteries (the blood vessels that carry blood from your heart to the tissues and organs in your body).
Each time your heart beats, it pumps blood into your arteries (the blood vessels that carry blood from your heart to the tissues and organs in your body). A blood pressure measurement is a test that measures the force (pressure) in your arteries as your heart pumps. Blood pressure is measured as two numbers: Systolic blood pressure (the first and higher number) measures pressure inside your arteries when your heart beats. Diastolic blood pressure (the second and lower number) measures the pressure inside the artery when your heart rests between beats. For example, a blood pressure reading of 120/80 means a systolic of 120 and a diastolic of 80. Many things can change your blood pressure. It can increase or decrease based on: Whether you're resting or exercising If you eat or drink foods with caffeine , alcohol, or tobacco Your age If you're taking certain medicines Your position, such as whether you're sitting, lying down, or standing If your blood pressure is high on several different measurements on different days, you might have high blood pressure , also known as hypertension. Around half of American adults have high blood pressure. It increases the risk of life-threatening conditions, including heart attack and stroke . But high blood pressure rarely causes symptoms. A blood pressure measurement helps diagnose high blood pressure early, so it may be treated before it leads to serious complications. Other names: blood pressure reading, blood pressure test, blood pressure screening, sphygmomanometry
Why is this test ordered? A blood pressure measurement is often included as part of a regular checkup . Everyone age 3 or older should have their blood pressure checked by their provider at least once a year. If you have high blood pressure or are at higher risk for it, you may need testing more often. You may be at higher risk if you: Are 40 years old or older. Are overweight or have obesity . Have a family history of heart disease or diabetes . Have a family history of high blood pressure. Take birth control pills or other medicines that can increase your blood pressure. Are Black/African American. Black/African Americans are more likely than other racial and ethnic groups to have high blood pressure. Your provider can tell you how often you should get your blood pressure checked. You may also need to have your blood pressure checked: To see how well your blood pressure medicine is working (if you have high blood pressure) If you are being treated in the hospital To check if it's safe for you to have a medical or surgical procedure To check if it's safe for you to play sports or do other strenuous activities or jobs If you have symptoms of low blood pressure
Clinical Interpretation
Your results, also known as a blood pressure reading, will contain two numbers. The top or first number is the systolic pressure. The bottom or second number is the diastolic pressure. Blood pressure readings are also labeled by categories, ranging from normal to crisis. Blood pressure is measured in millimeters of mercury (mm Hg). Your reading may show your blood pressure is: Blood Pressure Category Systolic Blood Pressure Diastolic Blood Pressure Normal Less than 120 and Less than 80 Elevated 120 - 129 and Less than 80 High Blood Pressure Stage 1 130 - 139 or 80 - 89 High Blood Pressure Stage 2 140 or higher or 90 or higher Hypertensive Crisis (dangerously high blood pressure - seek medical care right away Higher than 180 and Higher than 120 Your blood pressure measurement can go up and down. Your provider will only usually diagnose you with high blood pressure if you have two or more high blood pressure readings on different days. They may also consider your blood pressure readings over a period of time, your medical and family history, and if you have other symptoms before diagnosing you with high blood pressure. If your child is younger than 13, your provider will compare their blood pressure readings with what is common for children the same age, sex, and height. If you've been diagnosed with high blood pressure , your provider may recommend: Lifestyle changes and/or medicines to control your blood pressure. You to regularly check your blood pressure at home with an automated blood pressure monitor. An at-home blood pressure monitor usually includes a blood pressure cuff and a digital device to record and display blood pressure readings. At-home blood pressure monitoring is not a replacement for regular visits with your provider. But it can provide important information, such as whether your treatment is working or if your condition may have gotten worse. Also, home monitoring may make the test less stressful. Many people get nervous about getting their blood pressure taken at a provider's office. This is called "white coat syndrome." It can cause a temporary rise in blood pressure, making the results less accurate. To get the most accurate results when taking your blood pressure at home: Make sure the blood pressure cuff fits snugly but isn't too small. Use a blood pressure cuff that goes around your upper arm. It is more accurate than the ones that measure on your wrist or finger. Take your blood pressure at the same time of day each time. Rest in the chair for about five minutes before taking your blood pressure. Sit up straight with your legs uncrossed and your feet flat on the floor. Seek immediate medical attention or call 911 if your blood pressure is over 180/120 mmHg, you have chest pain , shortness of breath , back pain , numbness or weakness, trouble speaking, or vision changes. For more information about home monitoring of blood pressure, talk to your provider. If you were tested for low blood pressure , a blood pressure reading of 90 systolic, 60 diastolic (90/60 mmHg) or lower is considered abnormal. Treatments for low blood pressure may include medicines and certain dietary changes. Seek immediate medical attention or call 911 if you have symptoms of extremely low blood pressure, such as confusion, a weak and rapid pulse, or cold skin.
Clinical Protocol & Patient Advice
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Several things can increase your blood pressure measurement. Tell your provider if you take any medicines, since some medicines may affect your results. To get a more accurate blood pressure measurement, avoid these things for at least 30 minutes before having your blood pressure taken: Exercise Alcohol Tobacco products Food or drinks containing caffeine Also, make sure to go to the bathroom before the test.
Usage Guidance
- Reference ranges vary by laboratory. Always discuss your specific results with a qualified healthcare professional.
Source: MedlinePlus, National Library of Medicine. View the original.