Blood pressure

Definition:

Blood pressure is the pressure exerted by the circulating blood on the walls of the blood vessels. It is an essential component of the cardiovascular system and is measured in millimetres of mercury (mmHg). Blood pressure is indicated by two values: systolic and diastolic pressure.

systolic and diastolic pressure:

systolic pressure: The higher value, which indicates the pressure in the arteries when the heart beats and pumps blood into the vessels.
Diastolic pressure: The lower value that indicates the pressure in the arteries between heartbeats when the heart is at rest.

normal blood pressure values:

a normal blood pressure is usually around 120/80 mmHg. However, values can vary depending on age, gender and state of health.

high blood pressure (hypertension):

A condition in which blood pressure is chronically elevated, usually above 130/80 mmHg. Hypertension is a risk factor for cardiovascular disease, stroke and disease.

Low blood pressure (hypotension):

A condition in which blood pressure is abnormally low, which can lead to symptoms such as dizziness and fainting. Hypotension is usually less of a concern than hypertension, but can be problematic in certain situations.

Causes of changes in blood pressure:

Elevated blood pressure: Genetic predisposition, obesity, lack of exercise, a high-salt diet, stress, smoking and excessive alcohol consumption.
Low blood pressure: Dehydration, heart problems, endocrine disorders, serious infections and certain medications.

Measurement:

Blood pressure is measured using a blood pressure monitor (sphygmomanometer), which can be either manual or automatic. The measurement is usually taken on the upper arm.

Treatment:

Hypertension: lifestyle changes (healthy diet, regular exercise, weight loss) and medication such as diuretics, ACE inhibitors, beta blockers and calcium channel blockers.
Hypotension: Treatment of the underlying cause, adequate hydration and, in some cases, adjustment of medication.

prevention:

Healthy lifestyle with a balanced diet, regular physical activity and avoidance of smoking and excessive alcohol consumption.
Regular blood pressure checks, especially for people with risk factors.

Worth knowing:

Fluctuations in blood pressure throughout the day are normal and blood pressure can be affected by stress, physical activity and periods of rest.
High blood pressure is often referred to as the "silent killer" as it often causes no symptoms but can cause significant long-term damage to health.

Research:

Research is focussed on developing new drugs to control blood pressure, understanding the genetic factors that influence blood pressure and improving prevention strategies.