These values matter for your heart

What are systolic and diastolic blood pressure?

Blood pressure is a central health parameter made up of two values: systolic and diastolic blood pressure. These values are measured in millimetres of mercury (mmHg) and indicate the pressure in the blood vessels during the different phases of the heart cycle.

The systolic value describes the pressure in the arteries when the heart contracts and pumps blood forcefully into the vessels. During this phase, called systole, the arterial walls expand briefly, corresponding to the highest blood pressure reading. The diastolic value, on the other hand, measures the pressure in the arteries when the heart relaxes and fills with blood — the diastole. In this phase the pressure in the vessels is at its lowest.

Both measurements are important for assessing blood pressure status and identifying potential health risks. Although systolic blood pressure often receives more attention, changes in diastolic pressure are also significant.

What blood pressure values are normal?

Blood pressure is generally considered normal when the systolic value is below 130 mmHg and the diastolic value is below 85 mmHg. This indicates a healthy circulatory state, although readings can fluctuate slightly depending on current factors such as stress or physical exertion.

There is also the category of “high-normal blood pressure”, where the systolic value is below 140 mmHg and the diastolic value below 90 mmHg. This condition is borderline and may require monitoring. Blood pressure below 100/60 mmHg indicates low blood pressure, which does not always cause symptoms. In some cases symptoms such as dizziness, headaches or fatigue may occur, but in most cases low blood pressure has no health consequences as long as there are no other causes.

Blood pressure varies by age group. In older people normal values tend to be slightly higher, while younger adults and children usually have lower normal values. Regular blood pressure checks are therefore necessary, taking age and lifestyle into account.

Is low blood pressure dangerous?

Low blood pressure, also called hypotension, is not always dangerous but can cause health problems in some people. Blood pressure below 100/60 mmHg is considered too low. In most cases it does not cause obvious symptoms.

If symptoms occur, they can vary from dizziness, fatigue and concentration problems to shortness of breath, cold hands and feet and headaches. The cause is often poor circulation leading to inadequate oxygen supply to vital organs.

Younger, slim women are particularly affected, where it is often a harmless form of hypotension. In many cases no exact cause for low blood pressure can be found. Sometimes an underlying condition such as an underactive thyroid or heart problems may be responsible. Certain medications or severe fluid loss can also lower blood pressure.

In some cases low blood pressure occurs in specific situations, e.g. when standing up quickly from sitting or lying down, known as orthostatic hypotension. This drop in pressure can cause dizziness up to fainting, especially in older people, and increase the risk of falls. Postprandial hypotension, i.e. a drop in blood pressure after eating, can also cause dizziness and lightheadedness in older people. After a meal blood pressure can fall because blood is redistributed to the digestive system.

Which diseases are often associated with high blood pressure?

Persistent high blood pressure can lead to various health problems. If the pressure in the arteries remains too high over time, the vessels are overloaded, which can result in a range of serious diseases. The heart and kidneys are particularly affected.

Common consequences include cardiovascular diseases such as coronary artery disease, where the coronary arteries narrow due to deposits, and heart failure. These conditions can cause symptoms such as shortness of breath and swollen legs. In addition, high blood pressure can lead to heart rhythm disorders such as atrial fibrillation, which in turn increase the risk of stroke.

A common complication of long-standing high blood pressure is arteriosclerosis, a hardening and narrowing of the arteries that leads to poor circulation and can eventually cause stroke or heart attack. The kidneys are also affected because high blood pressure damages the renal vessels, which can lead to kidney failure.

Overweight, a high-salt diet, lack of exercise and smoking are important risk factors that promote the development of high blood pressure and increase the likelihood of complications. In some cases a family predisposition can play a role, as can certain hormonal disorders or kidney diseases that can cause secondary hypertension.

Can exercise lower blood pressure?

Physical activity can effectively lower blood pressure, especially through regular endurance sports such as running, swimming or cycling. These activities improve circulation, strengthen the cardiovascular system and make blood vessels more elastic.

It is important to increase training slowly, however. Training that is too intense can temporarily raise blood pressure because the circulation requires more blood. Therefore heart rate and breathing should be noticeably increased without causing complete exhaustion. If blood pressure is elevated above 160/95 mmHg, medical evaluation should be carried out before exercising. In such cases it may be necessary to consider medication first. A medical examination, particularly an exercise ECG, is also recommended before starting training.

For beginners, joint-friendly sports such as walking and Nordic walking are suitable. Cycling and swimming are also good alternatives. If you enjoy jogging or dancing, these activities can also help improve blood pressure. A moderate strength training regimen can be useful too, but pay attention to intensity and consult a professional if needed.

Blood pressure assessment: when should I see a doctor?

If your blood pressure is 180/120 mmHg or higher, you should seek medical attention immediately, as this extremely high pressure can lead to serious health problems. Symptoms such as shortness of breath, chest pain, back pain, numbness in the legs, vision or speech disturbances indicate a life-threatening situation. Immediate medical treatment is required in this case to prevent organ damage.

A doctor should also be consulted for blood pressure below 90/60 mmHg, because low blood pressure can cause dizziness, weakness and fainting. If you belong to a risk group for high blood pressure, you should have your blood pressure measured regularly. Readings above 140/90 mmHg, especially when repeated, require medical evaluation. In people over 80, blood pressure readings from 160/90 mmHg are considered to require treatment.

How to measure your blood pressure correctly: helpful tips

• Always measure blood pressure at the same times, morning and evening. This ensures that daily fluctuations caused by the body’s natural rhythm do not distort the result.
• If you take blood pressure medication, measure your blood pressure before taking it. This gives you an undisturbed reading before the medication takes effect.
• Make sure you rest for at least five minutes before measuring. Physical activity, stress or excitement can temporarily raise blood pressure and produce false results.
• Sit on a comfortable chair, lean back against the backrest and place your feet flat on the floor. Do not cross your legs, as this can influence blood pressure.
• The arm used for measurement should be at heart level. It must be completely relaxed and uncovered, without tight clothing restricting blood flow. An incorrect cuff size can distort the measurement, so seek advice when purchasing.
• Do not drink coffee or tea or smoke shortly before measuring. Caffeine and nicotine can raise blood pressure and distort the measurement.
• To increase accuracy, measure blood pressure twice with an interval of at least one minute. The second value is usually slightly lower and should be recorded.
• Ensure a quiet environment and avoid noises such as television or music, as these disturb concentration and can slightly affect blood pressure. Perform the measurement calmly, as a regular heartbeat is important. Patients with hypertension and a weakened heart muscle should be aware that hormones such as aldosterone can alter blood pressure in the long term.
• If your blood pressure is regularly 135/85 mmHg or higher, measure it daily and record the results. This allows you to observe changes and discuss them with your doctor.
• Don’t panic over elevated readings. A single elevated reading is not a definitive diagnosis of high blood pressure. If your blood pressure is above the normal range, don’t hesitate to measure it again. Regular measurements and a medical visit to evaluate the results are necessary.

Normal blood pressure is essential for health and overall well-being. A healthy lifestyle, regular checks and, if necessary, appropriate treatment can prevent high blood pressure or treat it successfully.