About Blood Pressure
What is Blood Pressure?
Blood pressure is the force exerted by blood against the walls of the arteries. Systolic pressure occurs when the heart
contracts. Diastolic pressure occurs when the heart expands. Blood pressure is measured in millimeters of mercury
(mmHg). One's natural blood pressure is represented by the fundamental pressure, which is measured first thing in
the morning while one is still at rest and before eating.
What is Hypertension and How is it Controlled?
Hypertension, an abnormally high arterial blood pressure, if left unattended, can cause many health problems
including stroke and heart attack. Hypertension can be controlled by altering lifestyle, avoiding stress, and with
medication under a doctor's supervision.
To prevent hypertension or keep it under control:
q Do not smoke
q Reduce salt and fat intake
q Maintain proper weight
Why Measure Blood Pressure at Home?
It is now well known that, for many individuals, blood pressure readings taken in a doctor's office or hospital setting might
be elevated as a result of apprehension and anxiety. This response is commonly called "white coat hypertension."
In any case, self-measurement at home supplements your doctor's readings and provides a more accurate, complete
blood pressure history. In addition, clinical studies have shown that the detection and treatment of hypertension is
improved when patients both consult their physicians and monitor their own blood pressure at home.
Blood Pressure Classification
The following standards for assessing high blood pressure (without regard to age or gender) have been established
as a guideline. Please note that other risk factors (e.g. diabetes, obesity, smoking, etc.) need to be taken into
consideration and may affect these figures. Consult with your physician for an accurate assessment.
BP Classification
Normal
Prehypertension
Stage 1 Hypertension
Stage 2 Hypertension
JNC7 Classification Table – for adults within the U.S
SOURCE: The Seventh Report of the Joint National Committee on Prevention, Evaluation and Treatment of High Blood Pressure for adults.
National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute - May 2003.
Blood Pressure Variations
An individual's blood pressure varies greatly on a daily and seasonal
basis. It may vary by 30 to 50 mmHg due to various conditions during the
day. In hypertensive individuals, variations are even more pronounced.
Normally, the blood pressure rises while at work or play and falls to its
lowest levels during sleep. So, do not be overly concerned by the results
of one measurement.
Take measurements at the same time every day using the procedure
described in this manual to get to know your normal blood pressure.
Regular readings give a more comprehensive blood pressure history.
Be sure to note the date and time when recording your blood pressure.
Consult your doctor to interpret your blood pressure data.
E-16
q Exercise regularly
q Have regular physical checkups
Systolic (mmHg)
less than 120
120-139
140-159
greater than or equal to 160
Diastolic (mmHg)
and
less than 80
or
80-89
or
90-99
greater than or equal to 100
or