Blood pressure is a measure of the force exerted by blood against the walls of blood vessels. It is an important indicator of cardiovascular health and can help identify risks for heart disease, stroke, and other health conditions. Regularly checking your blood pressure is crucial for maintaining good health and preventing potential health complications.
Checking blood pressure involves using a sphygmomanometer, which consists of an inflatable cuff, a pressure gauge, and a stethoscope. The cuff is wrapped around the upper arm, and the pressure is gradually increased until the blood flow in the brachial artery is blocked. The pressure at which blood flow is restored is recorded as the systolic blood pressure. The pressure at which blood flow becomes fully audible is recorded as the diastolic blood pressure.