A&D UA-631V Instruction Manual page 15

What Is Blood Pressure?
Blood pressure is the force exerted by blood against the walls of the
arteries. Systolic pressure occurs when the heart contracts; diastolic
pressure occurs when the heart expands. Blood pressure is measured
in millimeters of mercury (mmHg).
What A ects Blood Pressure?
Blood pressure is affected by many factors: age, weight, time of day,
activity level, climate, altitude and season. Certain activities can
significantly alter one's blood pressure. Walking can raise systolic
pressure by 12 mmHg and diastolic pressure by 5.5 mmHg. Sleeping
can decrease systolic blood pressure by as much as 10 mmHg.
In addition to these factors, beverages containing caffeine or alcohol,
certain medications, emotional stress and even tight-fitting clothes can
make a difference in the readings.
What Causes Variations In Blood Pressure?
An individual's blood pressure varies greatly from day to day and
season to season. For hypersensitive individuals, these variations are
even more pronounced. Normally, blood pressure rises during work
or play and falls to its lowest levels during sleep.
In Canada - Auto Control Medical (Toll-Free): 1-800-461-0991
-631V Manual_English.indd 11
ABOUT BLOOD PRESSURE
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