Hi Edward,
Have a look
http://www.health.nsw.gov.au/public-health/a-z/bloodpressure.html
BLOOD PRESSURE
Blood pressure is the pressure of blood in the arteries as the heart pumps blood around the body. Blood pressure is normal. We all have it and need it to stay alive.
Your blood pressure is always changing. When you are resting it is usually lower. It is often higher during exercise and when you are angry or excited.
Blood pressure can be measured by your general practitioner. Your blood pressure
result will have two numbers (eg 120/90). The first (higher) number is the pressure
when the heart actually beats and is called the systolic pressure. The second
(lower) number is the pressure when the heart rests between beats and is called
the diastolic pressure. Your general practitioner may take your blood pressure
several times before deciding if your blood pressure is low, normal or high.
Here is a guide to blood pressure levels in adults:
Normal - less than 140/90
Borderline - between 140/90 and 160/95
High - more than 160/95
Very high - more than 180/110
Blood pressure is normally lower in children and in women during pregnancy. Low blood pressure is generally not a problem. However, it sometimes can be a symptom of a medical problem. Your general practitioner will advise you.
The medical term for high blood pressure is hypertension. About one in
seven Australian adults have it. It increases your risk of heart
disease, stroke and other heart problems.
The causes of high blood pressure are often unknown. However, lifestyle
factors such as smoking, being over weight,
your diet, alcohol and lack of exercise
can increase your risk of high blood pressure.
High blood pressure rarely gives you any warning signs. The only way to know what your blood pressure is to have it checked every two years, or more often if your general practitioner advises you to.
Horsie.
xxx