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What is blood pressure and why is it important?

Blood pressure is measured using two numbers:

1. Systolic Pressure

This is the pressure when the heart contracts and pumps blood out to the body.

It is the higher number in a blood pressure reading.

2. Diastolic Pressure

This is the pressure when the heart relaxes and fills with blood again.

It is the lower number in a blood pressure reading.

NB - A doctor may say your blood pressure is “120 over 80” — this means 120 is the systolic pressure and 80 is the diastolic pressure.

Why Is Blood Pressure Important?

Blood pressure is important because it helps:

a. Push blood to all parts of the body, including the brain, heart, kidneys, and muscles

b. Carry oxygen and nutrients to the body’s cells

c. Remove waste products from the body

d. Keep organs working properly

What Happens If Blood Pressure Is Not Normal?

a. Too high blood pressure (hypertension) can damage blood vessels and lead to problems with the heart, brain, and kidneys.

b. Too low blood pressure (hypotension) can mean not enough blood is reaching the organs, which can make someone feel weak or dizzy.