Skip to main content

Understanding Your Blood Pressure Reading

Understanding Your Blood Pressure Reading

Blood pressure is the force through which blood moves oxygen and nutrients through your arteries to your tissues and organs. Blood pressure also helps carry the toxic waste in your body through your liver and kidney. 

A normal blood pressure reading is essential to your well-being. But do you know what that is? May is National Blood Pressure Education Month and an ideal time to find out.

Dr. Hector Fabregas of Healthstone Primary, with locations in Weston, Pembroke Pines, and Davie, Florida, takes this opportunity to educate you about your blood pressure reading.

Understanding your blood pressure reading

Blood pressure is represented by two equally important numbers, for example, 120/80. The top number represents the systolic pressure, the amount of pressure in arteries during heart muscle contraction. The bottom number is the diastolic pressure, which refers to the blood pressure when the heart muscle is between beats.

These two numbers together represent your blood pressure.

What are normal and high blood pressure readings?

Blood pressure readings fall into several categories:

A Stage 1 or 2 reading means high blood pressure or hypertension. If you’re in a hypertensive crisis, seek immediate medical attention.

What are the risks of high blood pressure?

Untreated, high blood pressure can lead to many serious complications, including:

How to maintain a healthy blood pressure

Dr. Fabregas recommends the following lifestyle tips for maintaining healthy blood pressure:

For more information about blood pressure or if it’s been more than a year since your last complete physical examination, it’s time to schedule your annual wellness visitRequest an appointment by calling our office most convenient for you or booking online today.

You Might Also Enjoy...

Can the Flu Trigger a Heart Attack?

Can the Flu Trigger a Heart Attack?

Having the flu is miserable. But did you know it can trigger a heart attack or cause other serious heart issues? Read to learn more, including steps to protect yourself.
How Often Do I Need Pap Smears?

How Often Do I Need Pap Smears?

Every year, over 4,000 women in the United States lose their lives to cervical cancer. Early detection through a straightforward test known as a Pap smear can be a lifesaver. Since January is Cervical Cancer Awareness Month, take a minute to learn when and

Understanding RSV in Older Adults

The CDC recommends that adults age 60 and older get vaccinated against respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), with the first-ever vaccine designed to mitigate this highly contagious respiratory virus. Read on to learn more.
What Does an AFib Episode Feel Like?

What Does an AFib Episode Feel Like?

Atrial fibrillation (AFib) is the most frequent type of arrhythmia (irregular heartbeat), affecting millions of Americans. But what are the symptoms of this potentially dangerous condition? Our team discusses what to watch for and when to seek help.