Q: How often should I check my blood pressure?

If your blood pressure is normal, check it at least once a year. If elevated or you have hypertension, monitor it more frequently as advised by your doctor - many people with hypertension check daily at home.

Q: What is the difference between systolic and diastolic blood pressure?

Systolic pressure (top number) is the force your heart exerts on artery walls when it beats. Diastolic pressure (bottom number) is the pressure between heartbeats when the heart rests. Both numbers matter for cardiovascular risk assessment.

Question 1

What is a normal blood pressure reading?

Accepted Answer

A normal blood pressure is less than 120/80 mmHg. The top number (systolic) measures pressure when your heart beats; the bottom (diastolic) measures pressure between beats.

Question 2

What causes high blood pressure?

Accepted Answer

High blood pressure is caused by a combination of factors including unhealthy diet (high sodium, low potassium), physical inactivity, obesity, smoking, excessive alcohol, stress, genetics, and age. In most cases it has no obvious cause (essential hypertension).

Question 3

What are the symptoms of high blood pressure?

Accepted Answer

High blood pressure is often called the "silent killer" because it typically has no symptoms. Some people experience headaches, shortness of breath, or nosebleeds, but these usually occur only when blood pressure reaches dangerously high levels.

Question 4

How do I lower my blood pressure naturally?

Accepted Answer

You can lower blood pressure by: reducing sodium intake (aim for <1500mg/day), following the DASH diet, exercising 150 minutes/week, maintaining a healthy weight, limiting alcohol, quitting smoking, managing stress, and getting quality sleep.

Question 5

How often should I check my blood pressure?

Accepted Answer

If your blood pressure is normal, check it at least once a year. If elevated or you have hypertension, monitor it more frequently as advised by your doctor - many people with hypertension check daily at home.

Question 6

What is the difference between systolic and diastolic blood pressure?

Accepted Answer

Systolic pressure (top number) is the force your heart exerts on artery walls when it beats. Diastolic pressure (bottom number) is the pressure between heartbeats when the heart rests. Both numbers matter for cardiovascular risk assessment.

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