What Should My Blood Pressure Be?
Every time you go to your physician’s office, your blood pressure is taken. But what do those two numbers mean and what should your blood pressure be?
Medical care providers take your blood pressure to determine how hard your heart is working to pump blood. High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, can cause damage to the heart and blood vessels over time.
Your blood pressure is measured in two numbers.
- Systolic blood pressure
The top systolic blood pressure measures the force pushing against artery walls when the heart is contracting. - Diastolic blood pressure
The bottom diastolic blood pressure measures pressure in the arteries when the heart is resting between beats.
What blood pressure ranges are considered healthy or unhealthy?
Keeping your blood pressure in the normal range is crucial in preventing complications, such as heart disease and stroke. A combination of healthy lifestyle habits and medications can help lower your blood pressure. If you’re overweight, weight loss is also important in keeping your numbers down.
