

Two measurements are taken at different points to give the systolic and diastolic pressure readings. As the cuff is slowly deflated blood flow is restored. When the cuff is inflated until it feels tight, the pressure temporarily stops blood flow to the arm. An inflatable cuff wraps around your upper arm and is connected to a device that measures the blood pressure. Your doctor can measure your blood pressure using an instrument called a sphygmomanometer. How is blood pressure measured? Sphygmomanometer Untreated high blood pressure raises your risk of heart disease, stroke and chronic kidney disease.Īround 1 in 3 Australians have been diagnosed with hypertension. Some people may experience headaches, nosebleeds or feel short of breath, but these symptoms usually only occur when blood pressure is dangerously high. So you won’t know if you have high blood pressure without it being measured by a health professional. High blood pressure, which is also called hypertension, doesn’t usually cause symptoms. How do I know if I have high blood pressure (hypertension)? For example, 120/80mmHg would be referred to as '120 over 80'.

The pressure is measured in mmHg, which is short for 'millimetres of mercury'. It is measured and described with 2 numbers (for example, 130/90mmHg). Related information on Australian websitesīlood pressure is the pressure of your blood pushing on the walls of your arteries as your heart pumps blood around your body.Which medicines are prescribed for high blood pressure (hypertension)?.What risks are increased by high blood pressure (hypertension)?.How often should I have my blood pressure checked?.What is considered high blood pressure (hypertension)?.How do I know if I have high blood pressure (hypertension)?.

