BODY MEASUREMENTS
BLOOD PRESSURE
Blood Pressure
It is estimated that one in four adults (approximately
50 million) in the United States has elevated blood
pressure – and more than 30 percent of them are
unaware of it.
Blood pressure is the force by the heart to pump the
blood through the arteries; and the pressure the blood
exerts against artery walls. The measurement is measured
in millimeters of mercury (mmHg). It is a combination
of two numbers:
- Systolic pressure - the top number,
is the measurement of pressure that occurs when the
heart contracts or beats.
- Diastolic pressure - the bottom
number, is the measurement recorded between beats,
while the heart is relaxed.
Blood Pressure = Systolic Pressure / Diastolic Pressure.
High Blood Pressure is when the heart exerts more force
than normal to pump the same quantity of blood within
the same time.
Blood Pressure Tests
Having your blood pressure taken is very easy. All
doctors and gyms have reliable blood pressure equipment,
called a Sphygnometer.
An inflatable cuff is placed around the upper arm,
and air is pumped into the cuff. Using a stethascope,
the tester is able to discern the systolic and diastolic
flow points; which are put together to form the reading.
Note: Some electrical machines have been shown to be
inaccurate.
Hypertension Indication Chart
| Level of Severity |
Systolic Blood Pressure* |
Diastolic Blood Pressure
* |
| Mild Hypertension |
140-160 |
90-100 90-100 |
| Moderate Hypertension |
160-200 |
100-120 |
| Severe Hypertension |
Above 200 |
Above 200 |
*Values in mmHg
Blood Pressure Chart
The following chart show the optimal, normal and hypertensive
ranges.
If you suffer from high blood pressure, you may find
this software of use in recording and tracking your
blood pressure. Download
a free trial here
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