E-24
About Blood Pressure
What is Blood Pressure?
Blood pressure is the force exerted by blood against the walls of the
arteries. Systolic pressure occurs when the heart contracts; diastolic
pressure occurs when the heart expands. Blood pressure is measured in
millimeters of mercury (mmHg).
What affects Blood Pressure?
Blood pressure is affected by many factors: age, weight, time of day,
activity level, climate, altitude and season. Certain activities can signicantly
alter one’s blood pressure. Walking will likely raise an individual’s blood
pressure. Sleeping will likely decrease blood pressure. Not relaxing for
several moments before measurements can inuence readings as well. In
addition to these factors, beverages containing caffeine or alcohol, certain
medications, emotional stress and even tight-tting clothes can make a
difference in the readings.
What causes Variations in Blood Pressure?
An individual’s blood pressure varies greatly from day to day and season
to season. For hypersensitive individuals, these variations are even more
pronounced. Normally, blood pressure rises during work or play and falls to
its lowest levels during sleep.
To Next Page
Loading...
