Blood Pressure Measurement Notes (copy)

blood pressure is recorded in two numbers-

the higher systolic pressure followed by the lower diastolic pressure

both figures represent the force of blood against the wall of the

brachial artery

while pressure in the left ventricle drops essentially to 0 the pressure in the aorta normally drops to about

80mm Hg

Systolic pressure is the

force of the left ventricle as it contracts

Diastolic pressure is the

pressure of blood between beets

Definition of hypertension-

blood pressure varies in the same individual under different conditions

the normal or average blood pressure reading is

120/80

high pressure increases the risk of a cerebrovascular accident (stroke), in which the

blood vessels of the brain burst or are blocked

causes of hypertension are

excess blood volume, obesity, and constant stress