What do the upper and lower limits of blood pressure show?

Most importantly: 

• What does the upper blood pressure limit reveal?
• What does the lower blood pressure limit reveal?
• What do irregularities in normal blood pressure limits tell us?
• How to manage problems with your blood pressure?

Blood pressure can tell us and our doctors a lot about the state our cardiovascular health. It's measured by looking at two main parameters: the upper (systolic) and lower (diastolic) limits. Read on to find out what both these limits tell us and what irregularities can indicate health problems. We will also provide useful information on how automatic blood pressure monitors, like Sendo, can be a useful tool to monitor your heart health and take preventative measures. 

Upper blood pressure limit 

The upper limit of blood pressure (systolic pressure) is measured as the heart squeezes and pumps blood to the arteries. This moment is considered to be when the pressure in your arteries is at its highest. Systolic pressure reflects the force with which the heart sends blood to the body. These are what different systolic measurements can show: 

• Normal values: below 120 mmHg 
• Elevated values: 120-129 mmHg 
• First stage of high blood pressure (hypertension): 130-139 mmHg 
• Second stage of high blood pressure: 140 mmHg or more 
• Hypertensive crisis: 180 mmHg or more (critical condition) 

Lower blood pressure limit  

The lower limit of blood pressure (diastolic pressure) is measured when the heart is at rest between two beats. This is when the pressure in the arteries is at its lowest. Diastolic pressure reflects the condition of the arteries and their elasticity, as well as peripheral vascular resistance. These are what different diastolic measurements can show: 

• Normal values: below 80 mmHg 
• First stage of high blood pressure (hypertension): 80-89 mmHg
• Second stage of high blood pressure: 90 mmHg or more
• Hypertensive crisis: 120 mmHg or more (critical condition) 

What can irregularities in a normal blood pressure range mean?  

Upper limit 

Increased systolic pressure is a fundamental sign of hypertension. The condition increases the risk of serious heart health problems such as heart attack, stroke, and heart failure. High blood pressure increases the risk of kidney and eye problems, as well as the risk of metabolic diseases. It often goes unnoticed because it can progress without symptoms. 
 
Lowered systolic pressure can be a sign of hypotension (low blood pressure). Although less common, this condition can also lead to health problems such as dizziness, fainting, and insufficient blood supply to the organs.

Lower limit  

Increased diastolic pressure is another indicator of hypertension. High diastolic pressure can damage the arteries and increase the risk of cardiovascular disease. It is often associated with stress, poor diet, and lack of physical activity. 
 
Lowered diastolic pressure can result from a variety of factors such as dehydration, blood loss, or heart disease. This type of hypotension can lead to fatigue, weakness, and impaired blood supply to the organs. 

What can we do when experiencing problematic blood pressure readings? 

No matter what problems you have with your blood pressure ranges, there are a few things that are guaranteed to help your health: 

• Regular measurements: measure your blood pressure at least twice a day - around morning and evening time. Automatic blood pressure monitors (BP) like Sendo provide the ability to easily store and analyse data. Sendo blood pressure monitors are extremely and easy and convenient to use from the comfort of your home or on the go. With Sendo's automatic BPM line, the chance of human error is very low in comparison to manual BPMs. 
• Healthy lifestyle: include more physical activity in your daily life (including walking for 20-30 minutes a day). Eat a balanced diet which includes reducing the amount of salt and fat you consume in a day. Drink plenty of water and avoid excessive alcohol and caffeine consumption. 
• Stress management: reduce your stress levels through techniques such as meditation, yoga, or deep breathing. Get enough rest and ensure having quality sleep. 
• Consulting with a doctor: regular check-ups with your GP and cardiologist are essential. Doctors can use your readings to prescribe specific treatments if needed.
• Specialist care: in the event of significant deviations in your blood pressure, it's important to react quickly and adequately. Consultation with a cardiologist or other specialist is recommended. Effective medical attention is key for serious blood and cardiovascular problems. 

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FAQ:  

Are blood pressure monitors accurate? 

• The gold standard in blood pressure measurement are mechanical devices, but they are predominantly used correctly solely by medical personnel. This is why Blood pressure and heart rate are related, but they measure different aspects of the cardiovascular system. Blood pressure indicates the force with which blood moves through the arteries, while heart rate indicates the number of heartbeats per minute. Although they are different measurements, they can be related. For example, high blood pressure can make the heart work harder, leading to an increased heart rate. Contrarily, in some conditions, like when exercising, heart rate can increase without blood pressure changing significantly. 's easy to use automatic BP monitors have improved and advanced technology that provides accurate measurements and clinical precision from the comfort of your home. Automatic BP monitors have also found their way into doctors' offices due to their convenience and fast, accurate answers. 

Are blood pressure and heart rate related? 

• Blood pressure and heart rate are related, but they measure different aspects of the cardiovascular system. Blood pressure indicates the force with which blood moves through the arteries, while heart rate indicates the number of heartbeats per minute. Although they are different measurements, they can be related. For example, high blood pressure can make the heart work harder, leading to an increased heart rate. Contrarily, in some conditions, like when exercising, heart rate can increase without blood pressure changing significantly.