Blood pressure is the measure of the force exerted by circulating blood against the walls of the arteries. This pressure is generated by the heart as it pumps blood throughout the circulatory system. Monitoring this force is important for maintaining cardiovascular health and predicting future complications. A reading of 113/59 provides specific information about an individual’s vascular function.
Deciphering the Blood Pressure Reading
A blood pressure measurement is presented as two numbers, each representing a different phase of the heart’s cycle. The top number, known as the systolic pressure, reflects the maximum force exerted against the artery walls when the heart muscle contracts and pushes blood out.
The bottom number, the diastolic pressure, measures the force within the arteries when the heart is at rest. This is the period between beats when the heart chambers are refilling with blood. Both numbers are measured in millimeters of mercury (mm Hg) and provide an assessment of cardiovascular function.
Assessing 113/59 Against Standard Ranges
Medical guidelines classify 113/59 mm Hg as generally optimal, though the diastolic number warrants closer attention. Normal blood pressure is defined as a systolic reading less than 120 mm Hg and a diastolic reading less than 80 mm Hg. The systolic reading of 113 falls comfortably within this normal category.
The diastolic number of 59 mm Hg is at the lower boundary of normal. Low blood pressure, or hypotension, is defined as a reading below 90/60 mm Hg. While 59 is not hypotensive, it is close to that threshold and may signal isolated diastolic hypotension since the systolic number is normal.
Blood pressure categories are tiered to identify increasing health risks. These categories include Elevated, Hypertension Stage 1, and Hypertension Stage 2. Since 113/59 is below all these thresholds, the reading is favorable for long-term health, but the lower diastolic number requires understanding its implications.
Factors Driving Lower Diastolic Numbers
A diastolic reading of 59 is important because this pressure drives blood flow into the heart muscle itself. The coronary arteries receive their blood supply when the heart relaxes during the diastolic phase. If this pressure dips too low, the heart may not receive adequate oxygenated blood, potentially leading to weakening over time.
A lower diastolic number can reflect a high degree of physical fitness, as athletes often have efficient hearts. Other factors causing a dip include dehydration, which reduces blood volume, and changing body positions too quickly (orthostatic hypotension).
Certain medications, such as alpha-blockers, diuretics, and some antidepressants, can also contribute to lower diastolic pressure. Aging can cause arteries to stiffen, which tends to increase systolic pressure while decreasing diastolic pressure. If a low diastolic number is accompanied by symptoms like dizziness, lightheadedness, or fainting, consult a healthcare provider to investigate the underlying cause.
Lifestyle Practices for Optimal Blood Pressure
Maintaining healthy lifestyle habits is paramount for long-term cardiovascular regulation, regardless of the specific reading. Diet plays a significant role, and adopting the DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) diet can help stabilize blood pressure. This eating pattern emphasizes fruits, vegetables, and whole grains while limiting saturated fats.
Reducing sodium intake is strongly recommended, ideally targeting less than 1,500 milligrams per day. Regular physical activity, such as 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise weekly, strengthens the heart and improves vascular health. Even modest weight loss can positively impact blood pressure control.
Managing stress and limiting alcohol consumption also support healthy pressure levels. Given the lower diastolic reading of 59, ensuring consistent hydration is a simple yet effective practice. Monitor your blood pressure regularly and discuss the 113/59 reading with a physician to determine the most appropriate personalized plan.