About Blood Pressure - ADC Advantage 6015N Instruction Manual

Warning: This system may fail to yield specified measurement accuracy if operated or stored in
temperature or humidity conditions outside the limits stated in the specifications section of this manual.
Warning: This product may contain a chemical known to the state of California to cause cancer, birth
defects, or other reproductive harm.
Caution: The standard material used is latex-free.
Attention: Self-measurement means control, not diagnosis or treatment. Unusual values must always be
discussed with your doctor. Under no circumstances should you alter the dosages of any drugs prescribed
by your doctor.
Attention: The pulse display is not suitable for checking the frequency of heart pacemakers!
Attention: In cases of irregular heartbeat, measurements made with this instrument should only be
evaluated after consultation with your doctor.
NOTE: To obtain the greatest accuracy from your blood pressure instrument, it is recommended that the
instrument be used within a temperature range of 50°F (10°C) to 104°F (40°C), with a 15-90% relative
humidity.

3. ABOUT BLOOD PRESSURE

3.1. What is Blood Pressure?
Simply put, arterial blood pressure is the force of blood exerted against the walls of the arteries. There are
two components to blood pressure - systolic and diastolic pressure. Systolic, the higher pressure, occurs
during contraction of the heart. Diastolic, the lower pressure, occurs when the heart is at "rest."
Your level of blood pressure is determined in the circulatory center of the brain and adjusts to a variety of
situations through feedback from the nervous system. To adjust blood pressure, the strength and frequency
of the heart (Pulse), as well as the width of circulatory blood vessels is altered. Blood vessel width is
effected by fine muscles in the blood vessel walls. Blood pressure is traditionally measured in millimeters
of mercury (mmHg).
It is recorded as systolic/diastolic. For example a systolic of 120 and diastolic of 80 would be recorded
120/80.
Blood pressure is a dynamic vital sign - one that changes constantly throughout the day. A person's
"resting" blood pressure is the pressure that exists first thing in the morning while a person is still at rest
and before consumption of food or drink.
3.2. What is a Normal Blood Pressure?
A systolic pressure of less than 120mmHg and a diastolic pressure of under 80mmHg are recognized as
normal by the Joint National Committee on Prevention, Detection, Evaluation, and Treatment of High Blood
Pressure, 2003.
NOTE: Blood pressure does increase with age, so you must check with your doctor to find out what is
"normal" for you! Even with normal blood pressure values, a regular self-check with your blood pressure
monitor is recommended. You can detect possible changes in your values early and react appropriately. If
you are undergoing medical treatment to control your blood pressure, keep a record of values along with
time of day and date. Show these values to your doctor. Never use the results of your measurements to
independently alter the drug doses prescribed by your doctor.
3.3. What Influences Blood Pressure?
Blood pressure is influenced by many factors including age, weight, physical conditioning, past illness,
time of day, altitude, activity, and climate, to name just a few. In general, blood pressure is lower in the