ABOUT BLOOD PRESSURE
WHAT IS BLOOD PRESSURE?
Blood pressure is the force exerted by blood against the walls of the arteries. Systolic pressure occurs when the heart contracts; diastolic pressure occurs when the heart expands. Blood pressure is measured in millimeters of mercury (mmHg).
WHAT AFFECTS BLOOD PRESSURE?
Blood pressure is affected by many factors: age, weight, time of day, activity level, climate, altitude and season. Certain activities can significantly alter one’s blood pressure. Walking will likely raise an individual’s blood pressure. Sleeping will likely decrease blood pressure. Not relaxing for several moments before measurements can influence readings as well.
In addition to these factors, beverages containing caffeine or alcohol, certain medications, emotional stress and even
WHAT CAUSES VARIATIONS IN BLOOD PRESSURE?
An individual’s blood pressure varies greatly from day to day and season to season. For hypersensitive individuals, these variations are even more pronounced. Normally, blood pressure rises during work or play and falls to its lowest levels during sleep.
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