Know your blood pressure

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Blood pressure is a measurement of the force against the walls of your arteries as your heart pumps blood through your body. Hypertension is another term used to describe high blood pressure.

Blood pressure readings are usually given as two numbers — for example, 120 over 80 (written as 120/80 mmHg). One or both of these numbers can be too high.
The top number is called the systolic blood pressure. The bottom number is called the diastolic blood pressure.
•Normal blood pressure is when your blood pressure is lower than 120/80 mmHg most of the time.
•Hypertension is when your blood pressure is 140/90 mmHg or above most of the time.
•If your blood pressure numbers are 120/80 or higher, but below 140/90, it is called pre-hypertension.
If you have heart or kidney problems, or you had a stroke, your doctor may want your blood pressure to be even lower than that of people who do not have these conditions.
Control hypertension at home
•Eat a heart-healthy diet, including potassium and fiber, and drink plenty of water.
•Exercise regularly — at least 30 minutes of aerobic exercise a day.
•If you smoke, quit — find a program that will help you stop.
•Limit how much alcohol you drink — one drink a day for women, two a day for men.
•Limit the amount of sodium (salt) you eat — aim for less than 1,500 mg per day.
•Reduce stress — try to avoid things that cause you stress. You can also try meditation or yoga.
•Stay at a healthy body weight — find a weight-loss programme to help you, if you need it.
Sources: National Library of Medicine; Medical Encyclopaedia
Culled from Punch

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