Blood pressure is a measurement of the force exerted by circulating blood against the walls of the body’s arteries, which are the major blood vessels. It is always presented as two numbers: a higher value over a lower value, measured in millimeters of mercury (mm Hg). A reading of 117/59 mm Hg is generally considered an optimal result for most adults. This reading falls comfortably below the thresholds associated with increased cardiovascular risk.
Deciphering the Systolic and Diastolic Readings
The two numbers in a blood pressure reading represent two distinct phases of the cardiac cycle. The first, and larger number, 117, is the systolic pressure. This value reflects the maximum pressure within the arteries when the heart muscle contracts to pump blood out to the rest of the body.
During this pumping phase, the force against the arterial walls is at its highest point. The 117 mm Hg reading indicates a relatively low level of force during contraction. A lower systolic pressure suggests that the heart is working efficiently and the arteries are pliable and open.
The second, or lower number, 59 mm Hg, is the diastolic pressure. This is the minimum pressure exerted on the artery walls when the heart is relaxed and refilling with blood between beats. The diastolic phase is when the heart muscle and coronary arteries receive their own blood supply.
A diastolic reading of 59 mm Hg shows that the resting pressure in the arteries is low. This suggests that the vessels are not constricted and are accommodating the blood flow easily during the relaxation period. Both the systolic and diastolic numbers are necessary for a complete assessment of cardiovascular health.
Categorizing 117/59 on the Blood Pressure Chart
Current guidelines from major health organizations classify blood pressure readings into specific categories to help guide health management. The threshold for “Normal” blood pressure is defined as a systolic reading less than 120 mm Hg and a diastolic reading less than 80 mm Hg.
A reading of 117/59 mm Hg fits squarely within this “Normal” category. Both the 117 systolic and the 59 diastolic values are well below the upper limits of 120 and 80, respectively. This classification indicates a very low risk for blood pressure-related cardiovascular complications.
The next category, “Elevated” blood pressure, is defined by a systolic pressure between 120 and 129 mm Hg and a diastolic pressure still less than 80 mm Hg. Readings that reach or exceed 130 mm Hg systolic or 80 mm Hg diastolic are classified as Stage 1 Hypertension.
While the diastolic number of 59 mm Hg is on the lower end of the spectrum, it is generally considered acceptable. A reading below 60 mm Hg can sometimes be a concern if it causes symptoms of hypotension, such as lightheadedness, dizziness, or fainting. However, without such accompanying symptoms, a diastolic pressure of 59 mm Hg is typically a positive sign of optimal vascular health.
A reading is only considered low, or hypotensive, when it is consistently less than 90 mm Hg systolic or 60 mm Hg diastolic and is causing noticeable symptoms. The 117/59 reading is not low enough to cause concern in most healthy individuals.
Factors Affecting Accurate Measurement
A single blood pressure measurement, even an optimal one like 117/59 mm Hg, only provides a snapshot of the body’s condition at that moment. Many temporary variables can influence the reading, which is why it is recommended to obtain an average of multiple readings over time.
To ensure accuracy, a person should be seated calmly with their back supported and their feet flat on the floor, avoiding crossing their legs. The arm used for the measurement must be supported at the level of the heart, as incorrect positioning can artificially inflate or deflate the recorded pressure. Recent activities, such as exercise, caffeine consumption, or smoking, should also be avoided for at least 30 minutes before taking a reading.
The emotional state of the individual also plays a large role. Stress, anxiety, or even being in a clinical setting, sometimes called “white coat syndrome,” can cause a temporary spike in both systolic and diastolic pressure. Talking or moving during the measurement process can also lead to an increase in the recorded numbers.
It is also important to use a blood pressure cuff that is the correct size for the arm’s circumference. A cuff that is too small can lead to an overestimation of the blood pressure, potentially misclassifying a normal reading into an elevated category.