Understanding Blood Pressure
What is Blood Pressure?
Blood pressure is the force exerted by the blood against the walls of the arteries. It is measured in millimeters of mercury (mm Hg). The ideal blood pressure range for adults is typically between 110/70 mm Hg and 125/80 mm Hg. A reading of 140/90 mm Hg is considered high, especially as people age.
How Blood Pressure Works
Blood does not circulate in a continuous flow; instead, it travels in spurts. The pressure peaks in the blood vessels just after a heartbeat and ebbs until the next one. This process is ongoing, reflecting the heart's pumping action.
The two numbers in a blood pressure reading represent the pressures during heartbeats (systolic) and when the heart is at rest (diastolic). The strength of the arteries affects blood pressure—stiffer arteries can lead to higher blood pressure.
Factors Affecting Blood Pressure
As a person ages, the elasticity of their arteries may weaken, often resulting in higher blood pressure readings. However, the diastolic pressure (the lower number) should remain under 90, at least until a person reaches their sixties.
Research indicates a higher prevalence of hypertension in Black individuals compared to White individuals. This disparity may be influenced by socioeconomic and health factors, necessitating further investigation.
Types of Hypertension
Some individuals with high blood pressure may not identify a specific cause; they may be fit and lead a healthy lifestyle, yet their blood pressure remains high. This condition is known as Primary or Essential Hypertension. Conversely, if high blood pressure is due to an underlying medical condition, it is referred to as Secondary Hypertension.
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