Blood pressure is the force generated by circulating blood pushing against the walls of the body’s major arteries. This pressure reflects how hard the heart is working and the resistance within the blood vessels. Knowing your blood pressure numbers is a simple yet effective way to gauge your cardiovascular health and potential risk for complications like heart disease or stroke. A reading like 117/60 provides two distinct measurements that offer insight into the mechanics of your circulatory system.
Understanding Systolic and Diastolic Pressure
The top number, 117, is the systolic pressure, which measures the maximum force exerted on the artery walls when the heart contracts. This action, called systole, occurs when the left ventricle pushes blood out into the aorta and the rest of the body. Systolic pressure is particularly relevant for people over the age of 50, as it often increases with age due to the stiffening of large arteries.
The bottom number, 60, is the diastolic pressure, which reflects the minimum pressure in the arteries when the heart is at rest. This period, known as diastole, is when the heart chambers refill with blood between beats. Both the systolic and diastolic numbers are necessary for a complete assessment of cardiovascular function.
Categorizing the 117/60 Reading
The reading of 117/60 is considered a healthy blood pressure result. Current medical guidelines define Normal blood pressure as a reading where the systolic pressure is less than 120 mm Hg and the diastolic pressure is less than 80 mm Hg. Therefore, this reading falls within the Normal category.
The systolic value of 117 mm Hg is just shy of the next classification, “Elevated,” which is defined as a systolic reading between 120 and 129 mm Hg. The diastolic pressure of 60 mm Hg is an excellent number, indicating low resistance in the arteries when the heart is relaxing.
This reading is a positive indicator of current cardiovascular health but should be monitored regularly. If the systolic number were consistently 120 or higher, it would signal a greater risk requiring nonpharmacologic interventions.
Steps for Maintaining a Healthy Reading
To maintain a blood pressure reading in the Normal range, consistent attention to lifestyle factors is beneficial. Dietary changes are highly effective, such as adopting the principles of the Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) eating plan. This diet emphasizes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and low-fat dairy while limiting saturated fats and cholesterol.
Reducing sodium intake is another direct way to support healthy pressure levels. Most adults should aim to limit sodium consumption to no more than 2,300 milligrams per day, with an ideal target of 1,500 mg or less. Physical activity also provides significant benefits, with a goal of at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise, such as brisk walking, per week.
Incorporating strength training at least two days a week can further support cardiovascular health. Stress management techniques, such as mindfulness or deep breathing, help mitigate the physical effects of chronic stress. Maintaining a healthy body weight also reduces the strain on the circulatory system and helps keep blood pressure numbers stable.