Blood pressure is the force or pressure exerted on the artery walls. Our hearts consistently pump blood through our organs and tissues every day of our lives. Each time our heart beats, blood is pumped into our circulatory system vessels or arteries. Since blood is transported all around our body, it places pressure of the walls of these vessels.
When calculating one’s blood pressure, two measurements are always taken. These numbers will be presented together. The upper number, known as the systolic value, measures the pressure when your heart contracts and is usually the highest point of pressure. The lower number, or the Diastolic value, measures the pressure when your heart relaxes from a contraction, or in-between a contraction. This is when blood pressure is at its lowest.
To get the most accurate representation of one’s blood pressure, it is important to measure blood pressure multiple times a day. Blood pressure can be affected by stress, physical activity, nervousness, or even temperature. Due to the fluxurating nature of one’s blood pressure, abnormal measurements can be temporary. If a blood pressure reading appears to be too high or low, this does not mean it is an accurate measurement. This is why it is recommended to measure multiple times and at rest to determine what one’s blood pressure is. If multiple readings throughout the day determine an abnormal blood pressure range, speaking with your physician is a wise next step.