Blood Pressure, The Important Role It Plays In Good Health

Blood pressure measures the force of blood as it moves from your heart through your arteries to the rest of your body.

• The systolic number shows the pressure in your arteries when your heart pumps blood out.
• The diastolic number shows the pressure when your heart relaxes between beats.

Blood pressure naturally rises during stress, excitement, or nervousness. These brief increases are normal and usually harmless. Problems start when blood pressure stays high over time. This condition is called hypertension.

Long-term hypertension puts constant strain on your heart and blood vessels. Over time, this damage greatly increases the risk of heart disease, stroke, and heart attack.

Several factors raise the risk of high blood pressure. These include clogged or stiff arteries, excessive alcohol use, smoking, excess body weight, and high sodium intake. Aging also plays a role and cannot be avoided.

Genetics matter too. If high blood pressure runs in your family, prevention becomes even more important. Starting healthy habits early can help delay or reduce the impact of hypertension.

Resources:

Kaiser Permanente, Health & Wellness, High Blood Pressure Condition Basics, Healthwise Staff, June 24, 2023
Kaiser Permanente
Last viewed: 20240119

Cleveland Clinic, Health Library, Diagnostics & Testing, Blood Pressure, Last reviewed by Cleveland Clinic Medical Professional, July 1, 2022
Cleveland Clinic
Last viewed: 20240119

Mayo Clinic, Blood Pressure Chart: What Your Reading Means, By Mayo Clinic Staff, March 18, 2022,
Mayo Clinic
Last viewed: 20240119