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- Blood pressure is measured with a stethoscope (device used to listen to internal sounds) and an inflatable arm cuff and a pressure-measuring gauge called a sphygmomanometer. A blood pressure reading, given in millimeters of mercury (mm Hg), has two numbers. The first or upper number measures the pressure in the arteries when the heart beats (systolic pressure). The second or lower number measures the pressure in the arteries between beats when the chambers of the heart are filling with blood (diastolic pressure).
- Blood pressure is measured in millimeters of mercury, or the abbreviation mmHg. In general, lower is better. However, very low blood pressure (hypotension) can sometimes be a cause for concern and should be checked out by a doctor.
- The latest blood pressure (BP) guidelines, issued in 2003 by the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, divide blood pressure measurements into four general categories including normal (BP below 120/80 mmHg, pre-hypertension (BP of 120-139 systolic and 80-89 diastolic, Stage 1 hypertension (BP of 140-159 systolic and 90-99 diastolic), and Stage 2 hypertension (BP of 160 or higher systolic and 100 or higher diastolic). To get an accurate blood pressure reading, a healthcare professional should evaluate the readings based on the average of two or more blood pressure readings.
- In a doctor's office, blood pressure readings are usually taken when sitting or lying down and relaxed. Healthcare professionals recommend to not drink coffee or smoke cigarettes 30 minutes before having blood pressure taken, wear short sleeves, and go to the bathroom before the BP reading. Having a full bladder can change the blood pressure reading. Also, sit for five minutes before the test.
- Physical examination and blood tests: If hypertension is found, the doctor may ask questions such as medical history and diet and lifestyle. The doctor may also order various routine tests. Risk factors of high blood pressure are evaluated, including, electrolyte levels including sodium, potassium, and chloride, high cholesterol levels including total cholesterol low density lipoprotein (LDL), high density lipoprotein (HDL) and triglycerides, calcium levels, diabetes (blood sugar levels), medications and supplements the individual is currently taking, and obesity (BMI or body mass index) measurement.
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