Help Understanding Your Blood Pressure Readings

Low blood pressure and high blood pressure can have adverse effects on our health. Low blood pressure causes you to become lightheaded and even faint. High blood pressure, on the other hand, can increase your risk of developing heart and kidney diseases, as well as trigger strokes and heart attacks.

When you visit the doctor, a nurse would always start by taking your temperature, weight and blood pressure. You may have heard the nurse say to herself, "Good," as she takes your blood pressure. It's good to know that your blood pressure is "good," but what exactly is a good blood pressure reading? Perhaps you've had a nurse tell you that your blood pressure reading is excellent, and that's after she blurts out some numbers that you forget immediately. When it comes to your health, knowing the details is important, especially if it concerns your blood pressure readings.

So how exactly do you know if your blood pressure is good or bad, too high or too low, based on the numbers? A common blood pressure reading, for instance, would be something like 130 over 85. This is a blood pressure reading that falls within normal range. The first number is called the systolic pressure and the second number is called the diastolic pressure. A normal blood pressure reading would have to have a systolic pressure between 120 and 140, and a diastolic pressure between 70 and 90. If your blood pressure reading is only slightly higher or lower than the normal range, don't panic.

Your stress level at the time that your blood pressure is being taken can affect your blood pressure reading. For instance, your blood pressure reading would most likely be higher than normal if you have recently been in an argument or nearly had an accident on your way to your doctor appointment. The time of day when your blood pressure is taken can also affect your blood pressure reading. Your doctor may suggest that you learn to take your own blood pressure so you can monitor it at different times during the day to see if your blood pressure changes significantly.

If your family has a history of high blood pressure or hypertension, it would be to your best interest to buy a home testing kit and learn how to take your own blood pressure readings. You can buy a home testing kit from any drug stores or online stores.