Overview of Blood Pressure

Blood pressure is the force exerted by the blood against the walls of the arteries as the heart pumps blood throughout the body. Blood pressure is measured in millimeters of mercury (mmHg) and is typically represented by two numbers: systolic pressure and diastolic pressure. Systolic pressure measures the pressure in the arteries when the heart contracts, while diastolic pressure measures the pressure in the arteries when the heart is at rest between contractions. A normal blood pressure reading is usually around 120/80 mmHg. However, blood pressure can vary depending on a variety of factors, including age, gender, activity level, and overall health. High blood pressure, or hypertension, occurs when blood pressure consistently measures above 130/80 mmHg. Hypertension can lead to serious health problems, including heart disease, stroke, and kidney disease, among others.