Blood Pressure - What the Numbers Mean?
Blood pressure is the measure of pressure of blood in your blood vessels (arteries)
It is measured in millimetres of mercury
Blood pressure is written down in two figures - for example 140/90
This would be read as 140 over 90.
The first or top number relates to the systolic pressure when your heart is pumping blood around the body
The second or bottom number relates the diastolic pressure when your heart is resting between each heartbeat
Why do I need to know what my blood pressure is?
High blood pressure usually has no symptoms which is why is sometimes know as the SILENT KILLER.
High blood pressure if left untreated can increase your risks of having a heart attack, stroke or kidney problems.
HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE SHOULD NOT BE IGNORED