Measuring blood pressure:
Blood pressure is the force of blood pushing against the walls of your arteries. It is measured in millimeters of mercury (mmHg). There are two numbers in a blood pressure reading:
- Systolic pressure: This is the top number and measures the pressure in your arteries when your heart beats.
- Diastolic pressure: This is the bottom number and measures the pressure in your arteries when your heart rests between beats.
A normal blood pressure reading is less than 120/80 mmHg. If your blood pressure is consistently 130/80 mmHg or higher, you have high blood pressure, also known as hypertension.
tips for measuring your blood pressure:
Here are some tips for measuring your blood pressure at home:
- Sit comfortably with your back supported.
- Rest your arm on a flat surface at heart level.
- Wrap the cuff snugly around your upper arm, just above your elbow.
- Turn on the monitor and wait for it to inflate the cuff.
- The monitor will display your blood pressure reading.
It is important to take your blood pressure at least twice a day, once in the morning and once at night. You should also take your blood pressure before and after taking your medication.
Means to lower blood pressure:
If you have high blood pressure, there are a number of things you can do to lower it, including:
- Eating a healthy diet:
This includes eating plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
- Exercising regularly:
Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise most days of the week.
- Losing weight:
Even losing a small amount of weight can help lower your blood pressure.
- Quitting smoking:
Smoking is a major risk factor for high blood pressure.
- Reducing stress:
Stress can also contribute to high blood pressure.
If you are concerned about your blood pressure, talk to your doctor. They can help you develop a plan to get your blood pressure under control.
Other precautions:
Here are some additional things to keep in mind:
- Avoid taking your blood pressure after eating, exercising, or smoking.
- Wait at least 5 minutes between blood pressure readings.
- If you are pregnant or have any other medical conditions, talk to your doctor about how to measure your blood pressure.
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