1. What is Blood Pressure?

Blood pressure is the force of circulating blood on the walls of arteries, measured in millimeters of mercury (mmHg). It's recorded as two numbers: systolic pressure (when the heart beats) over diastolic pressure (when the heart rests between beats).

2. How To Measure Manually

Manual blood pressure measurement requires a sphygmomanometer and stethoscope:

1. Place cuff on bare upper arm at heart level
2. Inflate cuff to about 180 mmHg
3. Slowly deflate while listening for Korotkoff sounds
4. First sound is systolic pressure
5. Disappearance of sound is diastolic pressure

3. Blood Pressure Categories

Normal: Less than 120/80 mmHg
Elevated: 120-129/<80 mmHg
Hypertension Stage 1: 130-139/80-89 mmHg
Hypertension Stage 2: 140+/90+ mmHg
Hypertensive Crisis: >180/>120 mmHg (seek immediate medical attention)

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter both systolic and diastolic values in mmHg. Systolic must be higher than diastolic. Values should be from a proper measurement.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: How often should I check my blood pressure?
A: Healthy adults should check at least annually. Those with hypertension or risk factors should check more frequently.

Q2: What affects blood pressure readings?
A: Caffeine, stress, exercise, full bladder, and talking can temporarily raise readings.

Q3: Which arm should I use?
A: Typically the left arm, but measure both arms initially as differences may indicate vascular issues.

Q4: What is a pulse pressure?
A: The difference between systolic and diastolic (normal is about 40 mmHg).

Q5: When is the best time to measure?
A: Morning before medications/breakfast and evening before dinner, after 5 minutes of rest.