Mission Wellness

Understanding Blood Pressure posted by John P. Willits, DC When your blood pressure is taken, 2 sounds are heard. The first is called Systolic, or top number. This is defined as the pressure reading in the arteries when the heart beats, or when the heart muscle contracts. The bottom number called diastolic, measures the pressure in the arteries between heartbeats. This is when the heart muscle is resting. Actually the lower reading is the more important of the two, but typically more attention is given to the systolic number. The numbers are recorded in millimeter of mercury (mg). The normal [or national average) is considered to be 120/80, though many people may have a "normal" pressure reading a little higher or lower. Hypertension (high blood pressure) is considered any systolic reading over 140mg, and diastolic reading over 90mg. If your blood pressure is close or above these numbers consult your physician, medication may be necessary. Chiropractic care and Acupuncture has been known to lower blood pressure in some circumstances.