Blood pressure is a measurement of the force exerted by circulating blood against the walls of the body’s arteries. It serves as a fundamental indicator of cardiovascular health, reflecting how efficiently the heart is working and the condition of the blood vessels. Routine monitoring is important because consistently high pressure can silently damage the heart and circulatory system over time. While a single reading offers a snapshot, tracking blood pressure trends is a valuable practice for long-term health management.
Understanding Systolic and Diastolic Pressure
A blood pressure reading is always expressed as two numbers, measured in millimeters of mercury (mm Hg). The top number, the systolic pressure, represents the maximum force exerted on the artery walls when the heart contracts and pushes blood out. This is the peak pressure in the arteries, reflecting the heart’s pumping action.
The bottom number, the diastolic pressure, measures the pressure in the arteries when the heart is at rest between beats. The diastolic value represents the minimum force present in the vessels. Both numbers are significant, providing a complete picture of the strain on the circulatory system during the heart’s active and resting phases.
What the 108/72 Reading Signifies
A blood pressure reading of 108/72 mm Hg is considered within the optimal range for an adult. According to current guidelines, this reading falls into the “Normal” category. This categorization reflects a healthy balance of force during the heart’s contraction and resting period, minimizing long-term wear on the cardiovascular system.
The systolic reading of 108 is below the 120 mm Hg threshold, and the diastolic reading of 72 is below the 80 mm Hg limit. Maintaining a reading in this range is associated with the lowest risk of developing serious conditions like heart attack, stroke, and kidney disease. This reading suggests low resistance in the blood vessels and a heart that is not working excessively hard to circulate blood.
Health professionals use a standard set of categories to assess blood pressure readings:
- Normal: Systolic Less than 120 mm Hg AND Diastolic Less than 80 mm Hg.
- Elevated: Systolic 120–129 mm Hg AND Diastolic Less than 80 mm Hg.
- Hypertension Stage 1: Systolic 130–139 mm Hg OR Diastolic 80–89 mm Hg.
- Hypertension Stage 2: Systolic 140 mm Hg or Higher OR Diastolic 90 mm Hg or Higher.
Variables That Influence Your Blood Pressure
Many temporary factors can cause significant, short-term fluctuations in blood pressure, meaning one reading alone may not accurately reflect baseline health. Recent physical activity, even a brisk walk, can temporarily increase systolic pressure. For this reason, it is recommended to rest quietly for three to five minutes before a reading is taken.
Consumption of substances like caffeine, alcohol, or tobacco products within 30 minutes of a measurement can also cause a temporary spike. Nicotine is a vasoconstrictor that immediately narrows blood vessels, elevating the force required to pump blood. Stress and anxiety, sometimes referred to as “White Coat Syndrome,” can also raise blood pressure significantly due to a rush of stress hormones.
Measurement technique itself is a major variable that can skew results. Using a blood pressure cuff that is too small for the arm can falsely elevate the systolic reading. Similarly, having an unsupported arm or back, or even talking during the measurement, can lead to inaccurate and higher numbers.
Lifestyle Steps for Long-Term Blood Pressure Health
Even with a healthy reading of 108/72, maintaining consistent habits is key to long-term cardiovascular protection. Dietary choices play a primary role, with the DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) eating plan being recommended. This plan emphasizes whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and low-fat dairy, while limiting saturated and trans fats and reducing added sugars.
A particular focus should be placed on reducing sodium intake. Limiting daily sodium to 1,500 milligrams can lower blood pressure. Conversely, increasing intake of potassium, magnesium, and fiber helps to counteract the effects of sodium and promote vessel relaxation.
Regular physical activity is another protective measure that helps keep blood pressure stable. Aiming for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise, such as brisk walking, on most days of the week can improve heart health and prevent future blood pressure increases. Maintaining a healthy weight is directly linked to lower blood pressure, and losing even a small percentage of body weight can offer substantial benefits.
Limiting alcohol consumption also supports healthy blood pressure maintenance. For those who choose to drink, moderation is defined as no more than one drink per day for women and two drinks per day for men.