Blood pressure (BP) is a familiar concept to everyone. Despite the fact that many people repeatedly measure BP on their own and can even analyze the results obtained using a phonendoscope or an electronic tonometer, the principle of the appearance of data remains a mystery to many. And such a concept as a variant of the norm is incomprehensible to many. In fact, this is a deviation from standard norms, which, taking into account the individual characteristics of a person, can be considered normal. But to understand the specifics of the BP measurement procedure, let’s consider: what can affect the indicators, as well as various options for deviations from the norm.
What affects blood pressure?
The oscillatory cycle of myocardial contractions systole-diastole repeats continuously, but for some reason the data can change not only during the day, but even within a few minutes. Changes in BP indicators are affected by:
- Muscle tone. Insufficient relaxation of the muscles during the measurement will contribute to the fact that the obtained indicators will be higher.
- Stress or anxiety before the procedure contributes to obtaining incorrect data.
- A smoked cigarette or the consumption of caffeinated beverages cause a short-term increase in vascular tone and a temporary increase in BP.
- Recent food consumption can also affect the reliability of the indicators.
If when you feel good, the indicators are too low or, on the contrary, somewhat high, then it is not always due to a low-quality tonometer. In some cases, deviations from generally accepted medical norms are possible.
Pathology or norm
Having understood what affects a person’s BP, it is necessary to consider which tonometer readings are considered normal, and in which cases it is necessary to seek medical help:
- low – pressure below 110/70;
- normal – 120/80;
- slightly high – does not exceed 140/90;
- high – measurement data above 140/90.
But these standards can change not only taking into account the patient’s age and constitution, but also taking into account the person’s lifestyle. For example, BP 100/60 may be normal for a slender girl, while 130/90 will be the norm for a male athlete. In addition, individual norms are influenced by features of vascular tone and heart rate.
To determine your norm, it is recommended to measure BP during the week and record the obtained data in a notebook. A comparative analysis of the obtained numbers will allow you to identify “your” BP, and also to determine under what circumstances deterioration of well-being occurs.
If BP significantly exceeds 140/90 when feeling well, it is recommended to consult a doctor and take blood pressure-lowering drugs, for example, AFT-Metoprolol CR (Metoprolol Succinate) or Ethics Enalapril (Enalapril Maleate), because this indicates an advanced form of the disease, in which vascular changes have already occurred.