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2. ABOUT BLOOD PRESSURE
2.1. 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 and 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.
2.2 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.
2.3 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 morning and increases throughout the day. It is lower in warm weather, and higher in
cold weather.
Physical activity can have a significant short term impact on blood pressure. Work, exercise, smoking,
eating, drinking - even talking, laughing, or crying will all affect a person's blood pressure.
Your diet, including beverages containing caffeine or alcohol, may affect blood pressure. Emotional
stress can have a dramatic impact on your blood pressure.
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11. ACCESSORIES
Optional Accessories:
Cuff Sizes:
Adult
850-6013
Large Adult
850-6013X
12. HOW TO CONTACT US
To register your product and obtain further detailed user information
about our products and services visit us at:
www.adctoday.com
and follow the links.
For questions, comments, or suggestions
1-800-232-2670
American Diagnostic Corporation
55 Commerce Drive, Hauppauge, New York 11788
Telephone: 631-273-9600 • Fax: 631-273-9659
Email: service@adctoday.com
(9" - 13" / 22.86 - 33.02cm)
(13" - 17" / 33.02 - 43.18cm)
call us toll free at:
®
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