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Blood Pressure

Blood pressure refers to the force of blood against the walls of the arteries as the heart pumps it through the body. It is measured using two values: systolic pressure (the higher value when the heart contracts) and diastolic pressure (the lower value when the heart relaxes between beats). Normal blood pressure is typically around 120/80 mmHg. High blood pressure (hypertension) is a common condition where the force against arterial walls is consistently too high, potentially leading to cardiovascular problems. Hypertension is often asymptomatic but can increase the risk of heart disease, stroke, and kidney damage. Lifestyle modifications such as a healthy diet, regular exercise, limiting alcohol and salt intake, and stress management can help manage blood pressure. In some cases, antihypertensive medications may be prescribed by a healthcare professional.