According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, 47% of Americans have hypertension. If we dig a little deeper into these statistics, it breaks down into a person having one of two primary types of blood pressure.
Our systolic and diastolic blood pressure is vital for pumping blood efficiently. High blood pressure is often a symptom of overly stressful and dangerous lifestyles. However, it can cause many health complications.
So, what are the differences between systolic blood pressure vs diastolic blood pressure? Keep reading to learn more about blood pressure.
Understanding the Different Components of Blood Pressure
Systolic and diastolic blood pressure are two critical components of understanding blood pressure. Systolic blood pressure is the highest pressure experienced in the arteries when the heart contracts or beats. Diastolic blood pressure is the lowest pressure in the arteries when the heart is between contractions and resting.
Systolic Blood Pressure
Systolic blood pressure is the blood pressure when the heart is contracting. It is the top number in a blood pressure reading and is also referred to as arterial pressure. It is caused by the ventricles pushing the blood through the arteries.
A regular systolic blood pressure reading is 120. Anything above 140 is high and requires further medical attention. The standard systolic blood pressure guide for healthy adults is 140/90 or lower.
Diastolic Blood Pressure
Diastolic blood pressure is the lower number of blood pressure readings. It indicates the pressure against your artery walls when the heart rests between beats.
Maintaining healthy diastolic blood pressure levels is essential. Too low or too high readings can lead to serious health problems like kidney and heart issues.
Ideal diastolic blood pressure should measure 80 or less. Low diastolic blood pressure (hypotension) indicates a weak heart. Meanwhile, high readings (hypertension) may indicate hardened arteries. It is crucial to speak to a doctor if diastolic levels are abnormal.
How Systolic and Diastolic Blood Pressure Affect Your Health
Systolic and diastolic are two measurements used to determine your blood pressure. High blood pressure can occur when these numbers are affected by an illness or a lifestyle of poor health. High blood pressure strains your heart and can sometimes lead to a heart attack or stroke.
Manage Your Blood Pressure for Optimal Health
Eating a nutritious diet low in fat, salt, and sugar, exercising, and reducing stress can help manage blood pressure. Additionally, meditating or engaging in peaceful activities can help reduce stress. Getting plenty of rest each night is also essential in maintaining blood pressure healthy.
Finally, it is essential to talk to a doctor if it becomes a concern. They may be able to provide medication to help with blood pressure and preventive measures.
Learn the Difference Between Systolic Blood Pressure vs Diastolic Blood Pressure Today
Systolic and diastolic blood pressure are different yet vital aspects of blood pressure. Systolic is the pressure in arteries when the heart pumps blood, and diastolic when the heart is at rest.
Meanwhile, diastolic blood pressure represents the pressure in your arteries between beats. Learning how to read systolic blood pressure vs diastolic blood pressure is crucial. That way, you can check your overall health better.
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