To better understand the blood pressure guidelines for your age group, you will need to familiarize yourself with the working of the heart. As a muscle, the heart pumps blood to circulate it throughout the body. The heart consists of four chambers or ventricles with valves opening and closing constantly to keep the blood in motion.
For humans, and indeed all mammals, the left ventricle pumps blood into the arteries. The tension reaches its highest point when the heart contracts, a state referred to scientifically as systole. As the heart relaxes, the tension drops to its lowest point and this is known as diastole. This is why blood pressure is always given in two values, the systolic pressure over the diastolic pressure, as measured in millimetres of mercury on the sphygmomanometer. In a young adult person enjoying good health, an ideal reading would be 120/80.
Blood pressure can be affected by many factors, such as stress, illness, alcohol consumption and diet. The amount of blood present in the body can push the tension up for instance.
There are various types of high blood pressure. In its most severe form, where the blood pressure measures over 200/140, the condition can lead to organ damage, heart problems and strokes. By this stage, the person may fall prey to frequent headaches and show warning signs that the organs are battling.
Sometimes, high blood pressure can be an indication that there are other health problems or lifestyle choices that need attention. Changes in kidney function, obesity, heavy drinking and thyroid problems can play a role. Pregnancy, too, often affects blood pressure.
Persons who are overweight or obese, in other words, more than 20 percent above their ideal weight, run a much higher risk of developing high blood pressure.
Paying close attention to your intake can combat high blood pressure. That means, less salt, as little refined food as possible and alcohol in moderation.
Smoking too can impact on your blood pressure rate. A greater emphasis should be placed on vegetables, nuts, legumes and high fibre food. Red meat, cheese, cream and refined sugar should at least be limited. Opt for leaner, low-fat choices and eat more fish and chicken instead.
Weight problems are not always the result of following the wrong diet, though.
Sometimes your genetic inheritance should be brought into consideration and the difference between a fast or a slow metabolism can be equally significant. Try to eliminate stress and exercise more.
Sometimes even a small drop in weight can make a huge difference in a person’s reading. By following the blood pressure guidelines for your age group, you should be able to harness greater quality of living.





