A blood pressure test is a non-invasive way of checking the pressure in your arteries caused by the pumping motion of the heart. Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is a condition where the blood presure is high.
This can be due to various reasons including genetics, a sedentary lifestyle, weight problems as well as organ disorders such as heart defects and kidney disease. Hypotension is a condition where the blood pressure is low and may be due to endocrinology disorders like diabetes and thyroid problems. Low blood pressure makes you feel tired and dizzy.
Your blood pressure is normal if it's below 120/80 mm Hg. Elevated blood pressure is a systolic pressure ranging from 120 to 129 mm Hg and a diastolic pressure below 80 mm Hg. Hypertension is present hypertension when the systolic pressure ranges from 130 to 139 mm Hg or a diastolic pressure ranging from 80 to 89 mm Hg.
It can also present readings of 140 mm Hg or higher or a diastolic pressure of 90 mm Hg or higher.
There is no preparation needed before the test.
Your blood pressure may be taken while you are in a seated position. An inflatable blood pressure cuff is placed around your upper arm an inch above the elbow joint. The cuff is secured so that it is firmly wrapped around your arm. It is then inflated quickly with a snall pump and left to deflate on its own. The systolic and diastolic readings are then taken.
You can learn your blood pressure measurement as soon as your test is over. Your doctor will look at the results of each of your blood pressure tests to see if further tests or treatment is needed, especially if your levels are dangerous. You will be given a follow up appointment to review your test results.
Should you feel unwell, contact your doctor immediately or call our 24-Hour Medical Urgency Clinic.
