Blood pressure (BP) measures the pressure within the blood vessels and arteries.

There are two significant numbers related to blood pressure. The first is the systolic, and the second is the diastolic.

1. Diastolic/Systolic
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The pressure as the heart pushes blood into the arteries is called the diastolic. The systolic pressure is the pressure created as the arteries resist the blood flow.

Factors That Can Affect BP

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Blood pressure can change depending on whether a person is lying down or standing up. Physical activity and emotional state affect blood pressure.

The Numbers

A reading of 120 over 80 or less constitutes normal blood pressure, according to the American Heart Association. A reading of 120 to 139 over 80 to 89 constitutes prehypertension, and a reading of 140 over 90 or higher is high blood pressure.

Complications From High BP

Persons suffering from high blood pressure are at increased risk for heart attack and/or stroke. They also have higher rates of kidney and other organ failure.

Keeping a Healthy BP

To maintain a healthy blood pressure, a person should eat a healthy, low-sodium diet rich in fruits and vegetables. Frequent exercise can lower the risk of developing blood pressure related problems.

Check BP Regularly
Blood pressure should be checked by a physician or nurse at least twice a year because blood pressure related complications often do not show up until they are life threatening.

Blood pressure is the measurement of the pressure your blood exerts against your artery walls. If you are confused about the difference between systolic and diastolic, the following sections will help to decode what your blood pressure reading really means.

1. What Does Systolic or Diastolic Mean?

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When your doctor tells you that your blood pressure is 120 over 80, the higher number is your systolic number. This is created by the force of your heart's contractions. The second number (the lower number) is your diastolic number. This is measures the pressure between heart beats.

2. Normal Blood Pressure Readings

According to the American Heart Association, if your systolic number is lower than 120 and your diastolic number is lower than 80, your blood pressure is normal.

Hypotension

The normal range varies among individuals, but having readings 20 mm Hg or more below normal may indicate low blood pressure (hypotension). Hypotension can cause symptoms like fainting, weakness, confusion and dizziness.

Pre-Hypertension

A systolic number between 120 and 139 or a diastolic number between 80 and 89 puts you into the category of pre-hypertension. Lifestyle changes are recommended to prevent further complications.

Stage 1 Hypertension

According to the Mayo Clinic, systolic numbers between 140 and 159 or diastolic numbers between 90 and 99 indicate stage 1 hypertension. Start with a healthy diet and exercise program. After 6 months, if your numbers are not improved, you may need medication.

Stage 2 Hypertension
According to the Mayo Clinic, systolic numbers greater than 160 or diastolic numbers higher

than 100 indicate stage 2 hypertension. Talk to your doctor about your medication options along with diet and exercise.