Grade 11 Life Sciences - Blood Pressure

A set of flashcards covering key concepts related to blood pressure, including definitions, measurements, and impacts of hypertension.

What is blood pressure?

The force exerted by blood against the walls of the blood vessels.

What are the two main factors that help maintain blood pressure?

Contractions of the ventricles (systole) increase pressure; relaxation of heart muscles (diastole) reduces pressure.

What is systolic blood pressure?

The maximum pressure reached in the aorta when the ventricles contract, typically average 120 mm Hg in a healthy adult.

What is diastolic blood pressure?

The lower pressure in the aorta when the ventricles relax, typically average 80 mm Hg in a healthy adult.

How is blood pressure measured?

With a Baumanometer that provides systolic (top reading) and diastolic (bottom reading), expressed in mm Hg.

What does a blood pressure reading of 120/80 mm Hg indicate?

It indicates normal blood pressure, with 120 being systolic and 80 being diastolic.

What risks are associated with hypertension?

Can lead to stroke, depression, loss of vision, kidney disease, heart disease, bone loss, and sexual problems.

What is hypotension?

Abnormally low blood pressure, which can cause dizziness, fainting, and other symptoms.

Why must blood pressure in capillaries be lower than in arterioles?

To prevent rupture of the thin walls of capillaries and to allow time for diffusion between blood and body cells.

What is the average systolic pressure in a healthy adult?

120 mm Hg.

What is the average diastolic pressure in a healthy adult?

80 mm Hg.