Blood pressure is the force of blood pushing against the walls of your arteries. Arteries carry blood from your heart to the rest of your body. When your heart beats, it pumps blood through these arteries. This creates pressure — and that's what we call blood pressure.

The Two Numbers in Blood Pressure

When you measure your blood pressure, you get two numbers. For example, 120/80 mm Hg. Let’s break this down:

  • Systolic pressure (the top number): This is the pressure when your heart beats and pushes blood out.

  • Diastolic pressure (the bottom number): This is the pressure when your heart is at rest between beats.

Both numbers are important. If either is too high or too low, it can be a sign of a problem.

What is a Normal Blood Pressure Reading?

A normal blood pressure reading is around 120/80 mm Hg. Here's a simple chart to understand the ranges:

  • Normal: Less than 120/80 mm Hg

  • Elevated: 120–129 systolic and less than 80 diastolic

  • High Blood Pressure (Stage 1): 130–139 systolic or 80–89 diastolic

  • High Blood Pressure (Stage 2): 140 or higher systolic or 90 or higher diastolic

  • Hypertensive Crisis: 180/120 mm Hg or higher — Seek medical help immediately!

Why Blood Pressure Matters

Your blood pressure affects how well your heart and other organs work. If it's too high or too low, it can lead to serious health problems:

  • High blood pressure (hypertension) increases your risk of heart attack, stroke, kidney damage, and eye issues.

  • Low blood pressure (hypotension) can make you feel dizzy, weak, or even faint.

What Causes High or Low Blood Pressure?

Many things can affect your blood pressure. Some are short-term, while others are long-term:

  • High blood pressure causes:

    • Eating too much salt

    • Not exercising

    • Stress

    • Being overweight

    • Smoking

    • Genetics

  • Low blood pressure causes:

    • Dehydration

    • Certain medications

    • Heart problems

    • Hormonal issues

How to Check Your Blood Pressure

You can check your blood pressure at a doctor’s office or at home using a digital blood pressure monitor. Always sit down and rest for a few minutes before taking a reading. Take multiple readings over time to get an average.

Tips to Keep Your Blood Pressure Healthy

  1. Eat healthy foods. Choose fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and low-fat dairy.

  2. Limit salt and sugar. Too much salt can raise blood pressure.

  3. Exercise regularly. Even a 30-minute walk can help.

  4. Avoid smoking and limit alcohol.

  5. Manage stress. Try meditation, breathing exercises, or yoga.

  6. Take medication if prescribed. Never skip your blood pressure medicine without talking to your doctor.

When to See a Doctor

If your blood pressure is always high or low, or if you have symptoms like chest pain, blurred vision, or dizziness — see a doctor right away. Blood pressure issues are often silent but can be dangerous if ignored.

Note: If you are using medications such as Apcalis or other treatments for men’s health, always consult your doctor about how they may affect your blood pressure.

Final Thoughts

Blood pressure is a simple number, but it says a lot about your health. Knowing what the numbers mean and keeping them in the right range can protect you from serious health problems. Check it often, live a healthy lifestyle, and take care of your heart — it's worth it.