HIGH BLOOD PRESSUREThe definition of high blood pressure is a measure of the force applied against the walls of the arteries when the heart pumps blood through the body. Pressure is determined by the force and amount of blood pumped as well as the size and flexibility of the arteries. Blood pressure continually changes depending on activity, temperature, diet, emotional state, posture, physical condition and medications. Blood pressure is usually taken while the person is seated with the arm resting on a table and slightly bent so that the arm is at height. at the same level as the heart. Blood pressure readings are usually given as two numbers: 110 over 70. The first number is called systolic blood pressure and represents the maximum pressure exerted when the heart contracts. The second number is called diastolic blood pressure and represents the pressure in the arteries when the heart is at rest. The test can be performed at any time. This is usually done after resting for at least 5 minutes. The only thing you may feel during the test is the pressure of the cuff on your arm. There is no risk in taking the test. Most people cannot feel if their blood pressure is high because they usually have no symptoms. High blood pressure increases the risk of heart failure, heart attack, stroke and kidney failure. For people with high blood pressure, the test is a way to monitor the effectiveness of medications and dietary changes on blood pressure. Typically, the systolic pressure is around 120 and the diastolic pressure is around 70 to 80. Abnormal findings are mild or diastolic hypertension. the pressure is 90 to 104. We speak of significant hypertension when the systolic pressure is greater than 200 or