Normal blood pressure for women is 120/80, but factors like diet, lack of exercise, pregnancy, contraception, menopause, and hormonal changes can affect it. Avoiding risk factors like smoking, alcohol, obesity, high sodium or cholesterol diets, and regular exercise can help maintain normal blood pressure. Women should monitor their blood pressure regularly and consult a doctor if they experience any symptoms.
As in men, normal blood pressure for women is 120/80 or “120 over 80.” Women face the same risk factors that affect men too, such as diet and lack of exercise. Additionally, women may have to contend with gender issues such as pregnancy, contraception and menopause.
Blood pressure is a measure of the force of blood on blood vessel walls. The standard format for recording blood pressure is actually two readings, measured in milligrams of mercury (mm/Hg). The first number, systolic blood pressure, measures the pressure during a pulse. Diastolic blood pressure, the pressure between heartbeats, is the second number.
Normal blood pressure for women is 120/80. In this case, “normal” doesn’t mean “typical” or “average,” but rather the healthy ideal. High blood pressure is the most obvious risk, but serious consequences can occur when blood pressure deviates from this ideal, either too high or too low.
Avoiding certain risk factors can help promote normal blood pressure for women and reduce the risk of high or low blood pressure. Smoking, alcohol, obesity, and diets high in sodium or cholesterol can contribute to high blood pressure, and removing these factors will help lower blood pressure. Regular exercise is another important step in maintaining normal blood pressure.
Hormonal changes can have an effect on normal blood pressure for women. Some women may experience an increase in blood pressure while taking oral contraceptives. Factors such as family history and weight could make this increase more likely. Regular blood pressure monitoring is advised for women taking these tablets and any questions or concerns should be directed to a physician.
Pregnancy can also cause your blood pressure to rise. Women already being treated for high blood pressure should speak to a doctor if pregnancy is suspected. Some treatments may affect the fetus and prescriptions may need to be changed. Your doctor might also recommend diet and lifestyle changes to keep your blood pressure under control.
During pregnancy, normal blood pressure for women can also drop, causing blood pressure to drop. Women might experience dizziness, fatigue, depression, nausea, or weakness, and a visit to the doctor is warranted when these symptoms are present. Your doctor is likely to recommend dietary changes, lots of fluid and light exercise.
Even normal blood pressure for women could be disrupted by menopause. Until later in life, men are more likely to have high blood pressure than women, but women over the age of 65 are actually more likely than men to develop high blood pressure. After menopause, a woman may experience an increase in blood pressure of up to 5mm/Hg due to hormonal changes.
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