What is Normal Blood Pressure?
Normal blood pressure is crucial for maintaining overall health and preventing chronic diseases such as hypertension.
Understanding Blood Pressure
Blood pressure is measured in millimeters of mercury (mmHg) and has two values: systolic (the pressure during heartbeats) and diastolic (the pressure between beats). The normal range for adults is typically defined as:
- Systolic: Less than 120 mmHg
- Diastolic: Less than 80 mmHg
Thus, normal blood pressure is often expressed as "120/80 mmHg."
Categories of Blood Pressure
Understanding your blood pressure is vital for your health. It is classified into different categories:
- Normal: Less than 120/80 mmHg
- Elevated: 120-129/<80 mmHg
- Hypertension Stage 1: 130-139/80-89 mmHg
- Hypertension Stage 2: 140/90 mmHg or higher
- Hypertensive Crisis: Higher than 180/120 mmHg
Importance of Monitoring
Regular monitoring of blood pressure is essential, as hypertension can lead to severe health issues, including heart disease, stroke, and kidney damage. Maintaining normal blood pressure can significantly reduce these risks.
For an accurate assessment, consult healthcare professionals, adhere to recommended lifestyle changes, and engage in regular physical activity.