All About Systolic Blood Pressure

| Awareness

All About Systolic Blood Pressure

 

Blood pressure is the force that your heart exerts on arteries while pushing blood. Through the sway, oxygen-rich blood is pushed to tissues and cells. Blood pressure is a very common term and almost everyone is familiar with the term. A normal blood pressure is 120/80 mm Hg, upper reading that is 120 is systolic blood pressure while lower reading that is 80 is diastolic blood pressure. In this blog, we will discuss the causes for fluctuations in blood pressure and to deal with systolic blood pressure. 

Systolic blood pressure (SBP) is the pressure exerted on the walls of the arteries during contraction, when the heart contracts to pump the blood to the rest of the body. It's the highest number and recorded first. 

Systolic blood pressure is crucial because it represents the force your heart generates each time it beats. High systolic blood pressure can indicate that the heart is working harder than normal to pump blood, which means it is prone to various health complications. These complications can be severe and may include heart disease, stroke, kidney damage and vision loss. 

 

All About Systolic Blood Pressure

 

How to measure Systolic Blood Pressure? 


Blood pressure is measured by using a sphygmomanometer which is also known commonly as pressure cuff and a stethoscope. There are many electronic devices available to check your blood pressure digitally. 

During measurement the cuff is wrapped around the upper arm and the cuff is inflated which cuts off the blood flow and then it is released slowly. As it is being released, the healthcare professional listens to the pulse in the artery using a stethoscope. The point at which the first sound is heard represents the systolic blood pressure. For the digital device, the healthcare professional just observes the reading, since it gives the reading automatically. 

This is an easy process and everyone can learn to do it to monitor your blood pressure at home at your own convenience without the help of a healthcare professional. However, the accuracy of the readings depend on how well you perform the procedure. The procedure allows healthcare professionals to determine both systolic and diastolic blood pressure

 

All About Systolic Blood Pressure

 

Factors Affecting Systolic Blood Pressure


There are many factors that can affect the systolic  blood pressure. High or low systolic blood pressure causes might be different for different individuals. Understanding these factors is crucial in maintaining your blood pressure and eventually preventing cardiovascular diseases. 

 

Age


Age is an important factor when it comes to maintaining blood pressure, since with age the arteries lose their elasticity and become naturally stiff which makes it harder for the heart to pump blood. This leads to higher systolic blood pressure. This is also the reason why hypertension is higher  in adults. 

 

Physical Activity 


Regular exercise also plays a significant role in maintaining blood pressure. Physical activity not only strengthens the heart but also maintains the flexibility of blood vessels. It allows the heart to pump blood efficiently. Activities such as walking, yoga, jogging or swimming are all beneficial.  

 

Diet 


Diet also has a direct impact on blood pressure. Diets specifically high in sodium saturated fats and processed foods can lead to high blood pressure and that is the reason people with high blood pressure are asked to eat less salty or less processed foods. On the other hand, a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean proteins can help reduce blood pressure. 

 

Stress 


Chronic stress can lead to hypertension. When you are stressed, your body releases more stress hormones which increase heart rate and blood pressure. Stress is a normal body function but it becomes a problem when it is chronic. Learn strategies to reduce your stress such as meditation, mindfulness and exercise, all of which help lower blood pressure. 

 

Smoking and Alcohol Consumption


Both alcohol and smoking can be harmful for blood pressure. Nicotine in smoke can make vessels narrow and raise heart beat. While alcohol, when consumed in large quantities, can also lead to raising of blood pressure. Limiting or quitting smoking and alcohol consumption can be a very beneficial step in reducing blood pressure. 

By understanding and managing these factors, you can take charge of your health and manage your blood pressure better. 

 

All About Systolic Blood Pressure

 

Conclusion


In conclusion, blood pressure is the force exerted by blood on the walls of arteries. Having some understanding of blood pressure can help you recognize the symptoms and take necessary actions on time. In case of intensity of the symptoms persisting or exceeding, talk to your healthcare professional. Adapting a healthy lifestyle can help you maintain your blood pressure. 

 

FAQs


1. Why is systolic blood pressure more important than diastolic blood pressure for heart health?


Systolic blood pressure is considered a stronger predictor of cardiovascular risk, because it reflects the force exerted by the heart during contraction. It's more critical for heart health, especially as we get older.

 

2. Can systolic blood pressure change during the day, and why?


Yes, it can change because of factors like exercise, stress, and even the time of day (blood pressure might be higher in the morning). Understanding these fluctuations can help you interpret your patterns and may require you to make lifestyle changes accordingly. 

 

3. Are there specific dietary supplements or nutrients that have been shown to help lower systolic blood pressure?


Certain dietary supplements and nutrients may help with lowering systolic pressure. These include magnesium, potassium, omega-3 fatty acids, and garlic extract. However, you need to consult with your doctor before starting any new supplements.

 

4. Does high systolic blood pressure only affect the heart and kidneys?


No, it can affect other parts of the body too. Over time, it can contribute to damage in the blood vessels (atherosclerosis), increasing the risk of conditions such as peripheral artery disease (PAD). Uncontrolled hypertension can also affect cognitive function and increase the risk of dementia. 

 

5. Can certain medical conditions affect systolic blood pressure?


Yes, certain health issues like diabetes, thyroid problems, and sleep apnea can change systolic blood pressure. It's important to treat these conditions properly to keep your blood pressure in check.