Systolic Blood Pressure

What it is

Systolic blood pressure is the top number in a blood pressure reading. It measures the pressure in your arteries when your heart muscle squeezes (contracts) to pump blood out to the rest of your body. Think of it as the peak pressure during each heartbeat. The other number, diastolic blood pressure, measures the pressure when your heart rests between beats.

Blood pressure is measured in millimetres of mercury (mmHg). A typical healthy range for systolic blood pressure in adults is generally considered to be between 90 and 119.9 mmHg. However, what's considered 'normal' can vary slightly depending on individual factors and the specific guidelines being followed.

Why it matters

Your blood pressure is a vital sign, meaning it's a key indicator of your overall health. Consistently high systolic blood pressure, often referred to as hypertension, can put extra strain on your blood vessels and organs over time. This can increase the risk of serious health problems such as heart disease, stroke, kidney problems, and even vision loss.

Conversely, very low systolic blood pressure (hypotension) can sometimes indicate that your body isn't receiving enough blood flow, which can lead to symptoms like dizziness or fainting. Monitoring your systolic blood pressure helps healthcare professionals understand how well your circulatory system is working and identify potential issues early on.

What can cause it to be high or low

Several factors can influence your systolic blood pressure, leading to readings that are higher or lower than the typical range.

Factors that can be associated with higher systolic blood pressure include:

• Age: Blood vessels can become stiffer as we get older, which can lead to higher blood pressure.
• Family history: A genetic predisposition can play a role.
• Weight: Being overweight or obese is a common contributor.
• Diet: A diet high in salt (sodium) can increase blood pressure.
• Lack of physical activity: A sedentary lifestyle can negatively impact blood pressure.
• Stress: Chronic stress can temporarily raise blood pressure.
• Certain medical conditions: Conditions like kidney disease, diabetes, and thyroid problems can affect blood pressure.
• Medications: Some medicines can have an impact on blood pressure.

Factors that can be associated with lower systolic blood pressure include:

• Dehydration: Not drinking enough fluids can reduce blood volume and lower blood pressure.
• Certain medications: Some drugs, particularly those used to treat high blood pressure, can cause it to drop.
• Heart problems: Issues with the heart's ability to pump effectively can lead to low blood pressure.
• Endocrine problems: Conditions affecting hormones, such as thyroid or adrenal issues, can sometimes cause low blood pressure.
• Severe infection (sepsis): This can lead to a dangerous drop in blood pressure.
• Sudden changes in body position: Standing up too quickly can sometimes cause a temporary drop (orthostatic hypotension).

Lifestyle factors that may help

Making certain lifestyle adjustments can be beneficial for managing systolic blood pressure. These are often discussed with a GP as part of a broader health plan.

• Dietary choices: Focusing on a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, while limiting salt intake, is often recommended.
• Regular physical activity: Engaging in regular exercise, such as brisk walking, swimming, or cycling, can support healthy blood pressure levels.
• Maintaining a healthy weight: Achieving and maintaining a weight that is healthy for your height can have a positive impact.
• Managing stress: Exploring techniques to manage stress, like mindfulness, yoga, or hobbies, may be helpful.
• Limiting alcohol: Consuming alcohol in moderation, if at all, is generally advised.
• Not smoking: Giving up smoking is one of the most significant steps you can take for your overall cardiovascular health.

Questions to discuss with your GP

If you have concerns about your systolic blood pressure readings, or if they fall outside the typical range, it's always a good idea to have a conversation with your GP. Here are some questions you might consider discussing:

• What is my current systolic blood pressure reading, and what does it mean in the context of my overall health?
• Are my blood pressure readings within the target range for someone with my health profile?
• What are the potential long-term implications of my current systolic blood pressure levels?
• Are there specific lifestyle changes you would recommend for me to help manage my blood pressure?
• Should I be monitoring my blood pressure at home, and if so, how often and what readings should I aim for?
• Are there any further tests or investigations you think would be beneficial at this stage?