Measurement of arterial blood pressure
Arterial blood pressure is the pressure exerted by circulating blood on the walls of the arteries as the heart contracts and pumps blood throughout the body. It is one of the key indicators used to assess the risk of cardiovascular disease, and effective blood pressure control can significantly reduce the likelihood of stroke and myocardial infarction. Blood pressure measurement is a non-invasive, quick, and reliable method for evaluating cardiovascular health.
Two values are measured:
- Systolic blood pressure – the pressure in the arteries when the heart contracts and pumps blood into the circulation.
- Diastolic blood pressure – the pressure in the arteries when the heart relaxes and fills with blood.
Blood pressure naturally fluctuates throughout the day and is influenced by physical activity, diet, stress, circadian rhythms, and lifestyle habits. According to the 2023 European Society of Cardiology (ESC) Guidelines, optimal blood pressure is below 120/80 mmHg. When interpreting results, factors such as age, sex, overall health status, and comorbidities are taken into consideration.
When is blood pressure measured?
Blood pressure is assessed:
- during routine health check-ups;
- in the presence of headaches, dizziness, shortness of breath, or palpitations;
- when high or low blood pressure is suspected;
- in individuals with cardiovascular disease, kidney disease, or diabetes mellitus;
- during pregnancy;
- before surgical procedures or other medical interventions.
In some cases, blood pressure may be elevated only in a healthcare setting due to stress or anxiety. This condition is known as white coat hypertension. It is typically identified by comparing blood pressure readings taken at home or through 24-hour ambulatory blood pressure monitoring (ABPM). The opposite condition is masked hypertension, in which blood pressure appears normal in a healthcare setting but is elevated at home or during 24-hour monitoring. In such cases, regular monitoring is essential.
How should I prepare for a blood pressure measurement?
Special preparation is generally not required; however, following a few important recommendations can help ensure more accurate results:
- Avoid alcohol consumption for 12–24 hours before the measurement.
- Avoid coffee, strong tea, energy drinks, and smoking for at least 30 minutes before the measurement.
- Rest quietly for at least 5 minutes before the measurement.
- Sit comfortably with your back supported, feet flat on the floor, and legs uncrossed.
- Keep your arm supported on a table or armrest at heart level.
- Avoid movement, talking, and laughing during the measurement.
- When taking two measurements, allow a 1–2 minute interval between readings and calculate the average value.
Reference ranges for blood pressure
Blood pressure ranges are based on the 2023 European Society of Cardiology (ESC) Guidelines and may vary slightly between sources. Therefore, results should always be interpreted individually, taking into account the patient's overall health status and the findings of other diagnostic tests.
|
Category
|
Systolic (mmHg)
|
Diastolic (mmHg)
|
|
Optimal |
<120 |
<80 |
|
Normal |
120–129 |
80–84 |
|
High normal |
130–139 |
85–89 |
|
Grade 1 Hypertension
|
140–159 |
90–99 |
|
Grade 2 Hypertension
|
160–179 |
100–109 |
|
Grade 3 Hypertension
|
≥180 |
≥110 |
|
Hypotension
|
<90 |
<60 |
Low blood pressure does not always indicate a medical condition. In some healthy young individuals and physically active people, blood pressure may naturally be lower.
Why is blood pressure monitoring important?
Long-term high blood pressure (arterial hypertension) increases the risk of damage to the heart, brain, kidneys, and blood vessels. If left untreated, hypertension is one of the leading risk factors for cardiovascular disease and stroke. Low blood pressure (hypotension) can also be harmful if it causes dizziness, weakness, or fainting.
Even in the absence of symptoms, regular blood pressure monitoring helps detect changes at an early stage and allows timely intervention to prevent complications.
When should you consult a doctor?
It is important to seek medical advice if you notice:
- consistently elevated blood pressure readings above 140/90 mmHg on multiple measurements;
- a sudden increase in blood pressure to ≥180/110 mmHg;
- blood pressure ≥180/120 mmHg accompanied by acute symptoms (chest pain, shortness of breath, vision disturbances, or neurological symptoms), requiring immediate medical attention;
- headache, dizziness, visual disturbances, or shortness of breath associated with elevated blood pressure;
- a drop in blood pressure below 90/60 mmHg causing weakness or fainting.
For a comprehensive evaluation and treatment options, you can schedule a consultation with a cardiologist or undergo a comprehensive cardiovascular assessment program.
Scientific sources:
- European Society of Cardiology (ESC). 2023 ESC Guidelines for the Management of Arterial Hypertension. European Heart Journal, 2023;44(34):2813–3010.
- World Health Organization (WHO). Hypertension: Key Facts. Geneva: WHO; 2023.
- MedlinePlus. Blood Pressure Measurement. U.S. National Library of Medicine. Updated 2023.
- Mayo Clinic. High Blood Pressure (Hypertension). Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research. Updated 2023.
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