What does a blood pressure reading of 86/55 indicate. How can you manage low blood pressure at home. What are the potential risks of chronic hypotension. When should you seek medical attention for low blood pressure.

Understanding Blood Pressure Readings: What Does 86/55 Mean?

A blood pressure reading of 86/55 mmHg is considered low blood pressure, also known as hypotension. This reading indicates that the systolic pressure (the top number) is 86 mmHg and the diastolic pressure (the bottom number) is 55 mmHg. Both these values fall below the normal range of 90/60 mmHg to 120/80 mmHg.

What exactly does this mean for your health? Low blood pressure can lead to inadequate blood flow to vital organs, potentially causing symptoms such as dizziness, fainting, and fatigue. However, it’s important to note that what’s considered low blood pressure can vary from person to person.

Interpreting Your Blood Pressure Numbers

• Systolic pressure (86 mmHg): This represents the pressure in your arteries when your heart beats.
• Diastolic pressure (55 mmHg): This indicates the pressure in your arteries between heartbeats.

Is 86/55 dangerously low? While this reading is below the typical threshold for hypotension, the severity of low blood pressure depends on individual factors and accompanying symptoms. Some people may feel perfectly fine with this reading, while others might experience significant discomfort or health risks.

Causes of Low Blood Pressure: Why Might Your Reading Be 86/55?

Understanding the potential causes of your low blood pressure can help in addressing the underlying issues. There are several factors that can contribute to a blood pressure reading of 86/55:

1. Dehydration: Not drinking enough fluids can lead to a decrease in blood volume, resulting in lower blood pressure.
2. Medications: Certain drugs, such as diuretics, beta-blockers, or antidepressants, can cause hypotension as a side effect.
3. Heart problems: Conditions like bradycardia (slow heart rate) or heart valve issues can lead to low blood pressure.
4. Endocrine disorders: Conditions affecting hormone production, such as thyroid problems or adrenal insufficiency, can impact blood pressure.
5. Nutritional deficiencies: Lack of essential vitamins like B12 or folic acid can contribute to low blood pressure.
6. Pregnancy: Blood pressure often drops during the first 24 weeks of pregnancy.
7. Neurological disorders: Conditions affecting the nervous system can interfere with blood pressure regulation.

What’s the most common cause of low blood pressure? While it varies among individuals, dehydration and medication side effects are frequently observed causes in many cases of hypotension.

Symptoms and Risks Associated with 86/55 Blood Pressure

When your blood pressure drops to 86/55, you may experience various symptoms due to reduced blood flow to vital organs. Recognizing these signs is crucial for timely management:

• Dizziness or lightheadedness
• Fainting (syncope)
• Blurred vision
• Nausea
• Fatigue
• Lack of concentration
• Cold, clammy skin
• Rapid, shallow breathing
• Depression

Are there long-term risks associated with chronic low blood pressure? While occasional low readings may not be concerning, persistent hypotension can lead to complications:

• Falls and injuries due to fainting
• Shock in severe cases
• Decreased cognitive function, especially in older adults
• Cardiovascular problems if the heart is consistently straining to pump blood

It’s important to note that the risks and severity of symptoms can vary greatly between individuals. Some people may adapt to lower blood pressure without significant issues, while others may require medical intervention.

Home Remedies and Lifestyle Changes for Managing 86/55 Blood Pressure

If you’ve been diagnosed with low blood pressure, there are several steps you can take at home to help manage your condition and potentially raise your blood pressure to a healthier level:

1. Increase Fluid and Salt Intake

How can hydration affect blood pressure? Drinking more water and increasing salt intake can help boost blood volume and pressure. However, consult your doctor before significantly increasing salt consumption, especially if you have other health conditions.

2. Eat Smaller, More Frequent Meals

Why does eating smaller meals help with low blood pressure? This approach can prevent dramatic drops in blood pressure that sometimes occur after large meals when blood flow is directed to the digestive system.

3. Wear Compression Stockings

How do compression stockings work? They help prevent blood from pooling in your legs, promoting better circulation throughout your body.

4. Stand Up Slowly

Why is it important to rise gradually? This technique helps prevent orthostatic hypotension, a sudden drop in blood pressure when changing positions.

5. Exercise Regularly

What types of exercises are beneficial for low blood pressure? Moderate aerobic activities and strength training can improve overall cardiovascular health and help regulate blood pressure.

6. Limit Alcohol Consumption

How does alcohol affect blood pressure? Alcohol can lead to dehydration and interact with medications, potentially exacerbating low blood pressure.

7. Increase Vitamin B12 and Folate Intake

Why are these nutrients important for blood pressure regulation? They play crucial roles in the production of red blood cells and overall cardiovascular health.

Medical Treatments for Hypotension: When Home Remedies Aren’t Enough

While lifestyle changes can often help manage mild cases of low blood pressure, some situations may require medical intervention. Your healthcare provider might recommend:

Medications

• Fludrocortisone: Helps increase blood volume
• Midodrine: Works to tighten blood vessels and increase blood pressure
• Droxidopa: Used for neurogenic orthostatic hypotension

How do these medications work? They either increase blood volume or constrict blood vessels, both of which can help raise blood pressure.

Treating Underlying Conditions

In some cases, addressing the root cause of low blood pressure is key. This might involve:

• Adjusting current medications that may be causing hypotension
• Managing heart conditions
• Treating endocrine disorders
• Addressing nutritional deficiencies

When should you seek medical attention for low blood pressure? If you consistently have readings as low as 86/55 and experience symptoms that interfere with your daily life, it’s crucial to consult a healthcare professional.

Monitoring and Maintaining Healthy Blood Pressure Levels

Regular monitoring is essential for managing low blood pressure effectively. Here are some tips for accurate home monitoring:

• Use a validated, automatic upper arm blood pressure monitor
• Take readings at the same time each day
• Avoid caffeine, exercise, and smoking for 30 minutes before measuring
• Sit quietly for 5 minutes before taking a reading
• Take multiple readings and record the average

How often should you check your blood pressure with a reading of 86/55? Initially, daily monitoring may be recommended. As your blood pressure stabilizes, you may be able to reduce the frequency based on your doctor’s advice.

Keeping a Blood Pressure Journal

Maintaining a log of your blood pressure readings, along with notes about your diet, activity, and any symptoms, can provide valuable insights for you and your healthcare provider. This information can help in identifying patterns and adjusting your management plan as needed.

Understanding the Impact of Low Blood Pressure on Daily Life

Living with chronic low blood pressure can affect various aspects of your daily routine. It’s important to be aware of potential challenges and adapt accordingly:

Work and Productivity

How can low blood pressure affect your work performance? Symptoms like dizziness and fatigue can impact concentration and productivity. Consider informing your employer about your condition and discuss potential accommodations if necessary.

Physical Activities and Exercise

Is it safe to exercise with low blood pressure? While regular exercise is beneficial, it’s crucial to start slowly and gradually increase intensity. Always warm up properly and stay hydrated. Avoid exercises that involve rapid changes in position.

Driving and Operating Machinery

What precautions should you take when driving? If you experience frequent dizzy spells or fainting, it may be unsafe to drive or operate heavy machinery. Discuss this with your healthcare provider to determine appropriate guidelines.

Travel Considerations

How can you manage low blood pressure while traveling? Stay hydrated, especially during air travel. Consider wearing compression stockings for long flights or car rides. Stand up and move around periodically to promote circulation.

Nutritional Strategies for Managing Low Blood Pressure

Diet plays a crucial role in managing low blood pressure. Here are some nutritional strategies that can help:

Increasing Salt Intake

How much salt should you consume? While increased salt intake can help raise blood pressure, it’s important to consult your doctor for personalized advice, especially if you have other health conditions.

Staying Hydrated

What’s the optimal fluid intake for managing low blood pressure? Aim for at least 8-10 glasses of water per day, adjusting based on your activity level and climate.

Balancing Meals

What should a balanced meal for low blood pressure look like? Include a mix of complex carbohydrates, lean proteins, and healthy fats. This combination helps maintain steady blood sugar levels and supports overall cardiovascular health.

Foods That May Help Raise Blood Pressure

• Salty foods like pickles, olives, and salted nuts (in moderation)
• Caffeine-containing beverages like coffee or tea
• Foods high in vitamin B12 such as eggs, fortified cereals, and lean meats
• Licorice tea (consult your doctor first, as it can interact with certain medications)
• Foods rich in folate like leafy greens, legumes, and citrus fruits

Is there a specific diet plan for managing low blood pressure? While there’s no one-size-fits-all diet, focusing on balanced nutrition with adequate hydration and appropriate salt intake can be beneficial. Always consult a healthcare professional or registered dietitian for personalized advice.

Coping with the Psychological Aspects of Chronic Low Blood Pressure

Living with a chronic condition like low blood pressure can have psychological implications. It’s important to address these aspects for overall well-being:

Dealing with Anxiety

How can you manage anxiety related to your condition? Practice relaxation techniques like deep breathing or meditation. Consider joining support groups to connect with others facing similar challenges.

Maintaining a Positive Outlook

Why is a positive mindset important? A optimistic attitude can help in better management of your condition and improve overall quality of life. Focus on what you can control and celebrate small victories in managing your health.

Educating Friends and Family

How can you explain your condition to loved ones? Provide them with accurate information about low blood pressure and how it affects you. This can help them understand your needs and offer appropriate support.

Seeking Professional Help

When should you consider counseling? If you’re struggling to cope with the emotional aspects of your condition, don’t hesitate to seek help from a mental health professional. They can provide strategies to manage stress and anxiety related to your health.

Remember, managing low blood pressure is a journey that may require patience and persistence. With the right approach, including lifestyle modifications, proper nutrition, and medical guidance when necessary, many people with chronically low blood pressure like 86/55 can lead full, active lives. Always work closely with your healthcare provider to develop a management plan tailored to your specific needs and circumstances.

Blood Pressure 86/55: What Does It Indicate?

A blood pressure of 86/55 indicates that you are having a LOW BLOOD PRESSURE which can be an immediate health crisis if the levels are too low.

This article tells you:

• What does a 86/55 blood pressure mean?
• What should you do if you have 86/55 blood pressure?
• Some easy to do home remedies and supplementations.
• Frequently asked question that will answer many of your queries regarding your 86/55 blood pressure.

The blood pressure value of 86/55 specifies the fact that the individual in question is suffering from low blood pressure or hypotension.

This is the medical condition that arises when the value of readings for the blood pressure of a person is less than [90/60].

The ideal blood pressure for an individual is between [90/60] and [120/80]. But for any reason, if the blood pressure falls below the specified readings, then the person can be said to be suffering from hypotension.

The medical condition of hypotension means that the pressure exercised by the blood flowing through the vessels over those is lower than the expected value.

And the same can be said in terms of the heart pumping blood to all the parts of the body. Low BP indicates that the heart is not able to pump blood to all the body parts to the extent that has been termed as necessary. And therefore, more complicated medical problems arise because of Low BP.

The effects or symptoms of these problems are not visible in the overall health of an individual. But these do certainly affect the individual in more ways than just one.

Here is a set-by-step procedure to follow when you figure out you have a blood pressure of 86/55.

If your blood is 86/55 and you have checked the same in your home setup, it is highly recommended to get it checked at your doctor’s office.

A trained professional has to clinically assess your condition and confirm that your 86/55 is, in fact, clinically valid.

There are instances when your reading at home setup might give you a reading which is incorrectly reported. It could be because of an error in reading it, damage to your device, your physical or mental condition on that particular day, etc.

Therefore, a doctor has to assess it over the course of 7 – 30 days periodically before he/she can confirm the accurate stage of your blood pressure.

In some cases, a patient might report wrong blood pressure in a hospital setup, called white coat hypertension. Here the patient may show higher blood pressure than their actual because of the anxiety inside a hospital environment.

In contrast, some patients may have masked hypertension in which the person may show lower blood pressure at clinical setup, but at home, they may have higher blood pressure.

All these conditions are linked to physiology and psychology and, therefore, better to be validated by a doctor.

Even the small changes that you make in your life can lead to having a really impressive effect on your overall health. And, the same can be said regarding the problem of low blood pressure.

If you choose to make reasonable changes in your lifestyle, you can improve your blood pressure to a significant level.

Here are some of the changes that you can bring into your lifestyle to improve your health and your blood pressure level:

You do not need to hesitate from consulting with a physiotherapist about the problems that you are having. Through a relationship of mutual trust, you will be able to get a prescription that will be best suited for your body and overall health.

Following are the prescribed medicines that are greatly helpful for people suffering from low blood pressure.

There are significant changes that you can see in your health if you were to eat healthily every day. And particularly in the case of hypotension, you should know what to eat and what not to.

Some of the comorbidities associated with low blood pressure include heart attack, cardiac arrest, heart valve disorder, bradycardia, and hormonal imbalance.

When you have 86/55, the above-mentioned comorbidities may follow; if correctly, medical attention is not sought.

Therefore, it is highly recommended to treat your hypotension, get it back to a normal level of 120/80 and maintain it.

Even stress is linked to hypotension in some patients. Since the human body reacts differently to different situations, not necessarily depression and anxiety lead to hypertension, but hypotension too. 

This is why it is important to get medical attention rather than treating yourself so that the root cause will be rectified and corrected.

Sometimes managing blood pressure is all about supplementing your body with the right diet. Food is undoubtedly the best primary source to supplement your body.

However, in the current scenarios, we all know how much adultered our foodstuff is, and most of us are pushed towards processed foods to feed ourselves in this fast-paced world.

All these food are high in sugar and sodium and doesn’t contain any vital nutrients that are important for a healthy heart.

This is where some of the nutraceutical-based blood pressure supplements come in handy. These products combine all critical nutrients your heart craves, thereby assisting the better function of your cardiovascular system.

Generally, these supplements are a concoction of herbs, plant-based products, dairy products, and some animal products. They are 100% organic and natural and don’t contain any harmful chemicals.

If you are hearing about these segments of products for the first time,  to start with, you may blindly go for Blood Pressure Support from Vita Balance Inc, Blood Pressure Optimizer from HFL, or Corsanum, marketed by PLT Group.

The only one thing to keep in mind is that choose the best supplement that promote healthy blood pressure, because when it comes to the heart, there is no taking of risk!

Low Blood Pressure or hypotension is not a problem to be made light of. If done so, it will only lead to more complications shortly. Rather than disregarding this problem, consulting with a professional physiotherapist will do you no harm.

Together, you can come up with the best solutions for you, especially when your blood pressure reading is 86/55.

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

1. What is the blood pressure, and what are the normal values?

Blood pressure is the pressure that is exerted by the blood flowing through arteries over those. Alongside that, this is the efficiency with which the blood is pumped by the heart to all the parts of the body through the circulatory system.

The normal values for blood pressure are between [90/60] and [120/80]. If a person has a blood pressure equivalent to this much, then it means that the blood will be flowing through the arteries relatively easily.

2. What is considered to be high blood pressure?

Blood pressure over the value of [130/80] is considered high blood pressure. This signifies that high pressure is being exerted by the blood flowing through the vessels over those.

And therefore, it is difficult for the human heart to be able to pump blood to all the parts of the body rather efficiently. This is a problem that can arise when the size of the vessels is contracted compared to the original size.

3. What is considered to be low blood pressure?

A blood pressure lesser than the value of [90/60] is termed low blood pressure. This type of value means that low pressure is put forward by the blood over the vessels that are carrying it. It can also be taken as a measure that, the blood is not able to reach all the parts of the body.

Or, the heart is not capable of circulating blood to all the parts of the body in an effective way. This problem in blood pressure is mainly the effect of dehydration and pregnancy.

4. What are hypertension and hypotension? Are they both the same as high and low blood pressure?

Hypertension is the condition that emerges when a person is having high blood pressure. Because of contraction in vessels, the blood can not flow through the vessels efficiently, and therefore, high pressure is exerted over the blood vessels, this particular condition is high blood pressure, also referred to as hypertension.

Hypotension is the condition that comes into effect when the blood pressure of a person is lower compared to the ideal value of blood pressure. This means that the heart is unable to pump blood through the blood vessels to all the body parts. This type of situation when observed is called low blood pressure, or hypotension.

5. What will happen to your general health when you have high blood pressure?

High blood pressure puts you at an imminent risk of arteries rupture because of the high pressure applied over those by the circulating blood. This can, in turn, affect the circulation of blood to all the parts of the body, and your heart itself. And, the latter part can lead you to some serious heart diseases. The high pressure applied over the heart walls can put you close to the risk of heart attack and heart failure.

6. What causes high blood pressure and low blood pressure?

The medical conditions of high blood pressure and low blood pressure are both effects of the lifestyle that we lead. This means that if we adapt to a lifestyle that is in line with our body and overall physical fitness, then we will have ideal blood pressure.

But, if our lifestyle is deviated from what we had started, some medical conditions can arise. High blood pressure and low blood pressure are some of those problems.

7. What are the risks of having high blood pressure?

The most serious risk that is faced by an individual that is suffering from high blood pressure is the risk of heart attack, heart failure, or some chronic disease related to the heart.

Moreover, there are also the additional risks of strokes, vision loss, diabetes, kidney failure, unresponsiveness to external stimuli, chronic chest pain, artery damage, and vascular dementia.

8. What can I do to lower my blood pressure?

To lower your blood pressure, the foremost step should be to limit the intake of sodium salts. Then, it will be good for you to opt for a healthy lifestyle; eat healthy meals and exercise daily. Try to maintain your weight to healthy proportions. Limit the intake of alcohol and caffeine-related beverages, and quit smoking.

Also, you need to have an adequate amount of rest every day and keep your stress and anxiety in proper check. If you continue to face high blood pressure problems even after making these changes in your lifestyle, it will be good for you to consult with a physiotherapist to discuss your blood pressure medications.

9. What are the risks of having low blood pressure?

The harmful effects that are associated with low blood pressure are not as prominent as what is associated with high blood pressure, but they can serve to be just as much harmful in the long run. Low blood pressure can lead to lightheadedness, dizziness, and confusion for a prolonged period.

This is a condition that can make you weak physically as well as mentally. Low blood pressure leads to a depletion in the effectiveness of motor senses, and the subject is likely to faint from time to time. This condition can also lead to blurred vision and can damage peripheral nerves over a long time.

10. What can I do to increase my blood pressure?

Increase the usage of table salts in your diet, and drink plenty of water. Limit your intake of alcohol as it is a dehydrating agent. Increase your diet by taking small meals multiple times with low carbs. Exercise daily and try to take up a lifestyle that will be good for your health and physical well-being.

Try to maintain a body weight that will be good as per your physical stature and age. Avoid changing positions abruptly, and wear compression stockings to improve blood flow in the legs. Also, consult a physiotherapist regarding your medications for low blood pressure.

11. Can smoking and alcohol affect my blood pressure?

Smoking and alcohol have an active impact on the blood pressure levels of an individual. These can lead to an effective change in the size of arteries that carry blood to all the parts of the body.

Heavy intake of alcohol can increase blood pressure in individuals to a significantly high level and this can even lead to long-term blood pressure issues in the individual. On the other hand, smoking is as bad as it can be. It leads to the contraction of blood vessels, which increases the pressure of blood over the heart walls. This puts you at risk of heart disease.

12. How to correctly check my blood pressure at home?

If you want to check your blood pressure at home, you can use portable blood pressure monitors to do so. These are highly adaptable and can help provide you with your blood pressure levels closest to accurate.

But if you are seeking precision in the readings, then it will be good if you were to follow certain measures. For once, avoid intake of caffeine and alcohol before taking the reading. And, have a proper rest of nearly 10 minutes before measuring your blood pressure.

13. Why is it important to visit a doctor to confirm high/low blood pressure?

It is important to visit a doctor regarding blood pressure for the sake of the precision of the outcome or the result of the readings. Moreover, in a proper medical facility and care of professionals, you will be able to get guidance about how to keep your blood pressure in check if it is not per your ideal blood pressure.

Also, you can get a consultation regarding the changes that you will need to make in your lifestyle to bring your blood pressure back in check.

14. Should you be worried about high blood pressure during pregnancy?

High blood pressure during the latter half of the pregnancy is not that rare of an occurrence. However, it is not something to make light of either. If not treated properly, or significant steps are not taken regarding it, this high blood pressure may pose danger to the health of the parent as well as the baby.

This type of high blood pressure or hypertension is called gestational hypertension, and it is not long-lasting. It goes away after the delivery of the baby.

15. What are some of the symptoms to watch out for in high blood pressure?

The symptoms of high blood pressure are not something that can be ignored readily. These symptoms include severe headache, anxiety attacks, shortness of breath, nosebleeds, blood spots in the eyes, intense fatigue, blurred or distorted vision, and vomiting or nausea. These symptoms are not something to be taken lightly.

High blood pressure is not an incurable problem, but measures are needed to be taken against it in the due time. So, don’t make light of the symptoms and consult a physiotherapist regarding these.

16. What foods should you eat to lower blood pressure?

To lower blood pressure eat a diet that is rich in minerals like calcium, magnesium and potassium.

Besides this, it is good to take short meals that are low in curbs. Instead of deep-fried products, it will be good if you were to incline towards a diet that is mainly consisting of vegetables like spinach, broccoli, and other leafy green vegetables.

Consume lots of low-fat poultry and dairy products. These will help enable a healthy diet for you and help you lean towards a healthy lifestyle.

17. What are the best herbs and spices for high blood pressure?

Many known herbs and spices are proven to have a significant effect on high blood pressure. Significantly, basil, parsley, Chinese cat’s claw, celery seeds, Brahmi, thyme, garlic, and ginger are the herbs that are most commonly made use of by people that are suffering from high blood pressure. Along with these, cardamom, cloves, ajwain, green oat, and flaxseeds are the spices that help manage high blood pressure.

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86/55 blood pressure – is it good or bad?

Home > Resources > Blood pressure lookup > 86/55

Maintaining a healthy blood pressure throughout your life is one of the most important things you can do for long-term health and longevity. Whether you’re looking up a blood pressure of 86/55 for yourself or a loved one or simply out of your own curiosity, you’re taking the right steps by being informed and empowering yourself or someone else to be their own best advocate.

According to the American Heart Association, a blood pressure reading of 86/55 would be considered
hypotension, or low blood pressure. Low blood pressure, or hypotension, is defined by a systolic reading (the top number) of less than 90 or a diastolic reading (the bottom number) of less than 60. Low blood pressure generally isn’t considered an issue unless it causes symptoms (such as dizziness, light-headedness, or fainting) or unless it drops suddenly.

Okay, now you know how to classify a blood pressure of 86/55, but now what do you do with that information? Read on to learn more or look up another blood pressure reading.

What is a good blood pressure reading?

According to the American Heart Association, a normal blood pressure reading is lower than 120/80. While there is no specific number for low blood pressure, most experts say blood pressure is too low when it causes symptoms or drops suddenly. In general, though, low blood pressure can be considered anything under 90/60.

More information about a blood pressure reading of 86/55

A blood pressure reading of 86/55 is pronounced “86 over 55.” You may also see it written colloquially as 86/55 bp.

In a blood pressure reading of 86/55, 86 is called the systolic number and 55 is called the diastolic number. Systolic refers to the part of the cardiac cycle in which the heart contracts and pumps blood from the chambers into the arteries, and diastolic refers to the part of the cardiac cycle in which the heart relaxes and allows the chambers to fill with blood. You may also hear the systolic and diastolic numbers referred to as the top number and the bottom number.

Systolic and diastolic readings are measured in mmHg, which is a unit of pressure equal to the pressure that can support a column of mercury 1 millimeter high. Hg is the chemical symbol for mercury. For a blood pressure reading of 86/55, you would pronounce it “86 over 55 millimeters of mercury.”

How do you measure blood pressure?

In a doctor’s office, blood pressure is traditionally taken manually by a doctor or nurse with a sphygmomanometer. A sphygmomanometer is a medical instrument with an inflatable cuff and pressure meter or dial. The sphygmomanometer is placed snugly around the upper arm and is inflated by hand, and the doctor or nurse listens to the brachial artery with a stethoscope as they gradually reduce the pressure of the cuff. When the whooshing sound of blood is first heard through the stethoscope, the doctor or nurse makes note of the reading on the pressure meter. This indicates the systolic blood pressure reading. When the sound disappears, the reading on the pressure meter indicates the diastolic pressure reading.

Blood pressure can also be taken at home using a number of a digital devices. They typically consist of an inflatable cuff and digital display and simply work by placing the cuff around the upper arm and pressing a button, after which the cuff inflatess, deflates, and displays a reading. The most popular blood pressure machines for home use are made by Omron, Beurer, and Paramed, amongst many others.

One thing to keep in mind is that blood pressure can vary by time of day and activity level, so if you’re taking it at home it’s important to check it around the same time each day and rest for a few minutes ahead of time to limit as many variables as possible. It can also be affected by eating.

Blood pressure tends to rise in the hours before waking and then drop in the afternoon and evening before dropping to its lowest point while sleeping, so one popular recommendation is to check it just after waking up and just before bed to identify trends in how it varies from morning until night. Because of this, you might find that if your blood pressure is 86/55 in the morning, it might be lower before bed, and vice versa. Of course, these are just general rules of thumb and may vary by the individual.

Relevant HSA expenses

If you have an HSA as part of your health insurance plan, you’ll be pleased to find that blood pressure monitors, blood pressure cuffs, and wrist blood pressure monitors are all eligible, including smart blood pressure monitors like the offerings from Qardio and Withings.

How the heck do you pronounce sphygmomanometer?

Sphygmomanometer is pronounced sfig-moh-muh-‘nah-mi-ter. Easy!

Explore blood pressure readings similar to 86/55

The following table shows related blood pressure readings because sometimes just one number can make all the difference.

Please note that if a field is blank, it’s not an accident—it simply means a record doesn’t exist for that particular blood pressure. This could be because going forward or backward would create a blood pressure reading that wouldn’t make sense, or because that blood pressure simply doesn’t exist in our records.

Sources

• Understanding blood pressure readings – American Heart Association
• High blood pressure – Mayo Clinic
• Get the most out of home blood pressure monitoring – Mayo Clinic
• Blood pressure – Wikipedia
• How to pronounce sphygmomanometer – Dictionary. com

Disclaimer

The information on this page is intended to be an educational reference and is not to be taken as medical advice. If you think you’re having a hypertensive or hypotensive emergency, or if you’re having any kind of medical emergency, please call 911 immediately.

Why is olive oil better than sunflower oil, and is it really so useful? But what really?

Photo: Daria Selenskaya / City portals

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As soon as mankind had olive and sunflower oil, there was a debate about which one is better. Recently, the palm among supporters of a healthy lifestyle has been pulled out by olive, and sunflower has remained on the sidelines of a healthy diet. But defenders of sunflower oil assure: this is nothing more than the tricks of marketers. So who is right and which oil is actually healthier? There is only one way to figure it out – ask the doctors.

Olive oil owes much of its popularity to the Mediterranean diet, in which olive oil is one of the main ingredients. In 2010, this diet was included in the list of intangible UNESCO World Heritage Sites. But, in addition to historical value, it has several other merits: help in the fight against obesity, heart and vascular diseases, and an increase in life expectancy as a result. Various studies show that people who adhere to the canons of the Mediterranean diet are more likely to become centenarians. It is clear that all this is due to more than just olive oil.

— This meal plan has certain principles and rules. This is the use of a large number of seasonal vegetables, fruits, berries, moderate consumption of starchy vegetables, which are complex carbohydrates, says dietitian Irina Toropygina. – Dairy products are also consumed with an average fat content, in small quantities, with an emphasis on sour-milk products. Fish and seafood are often consumed. The use of boiled white and red meat – no more than 100-120 grams per meal. Cooking methods – steam, stew, boil, bake. Frying is not recommended. Such general principles are suitable for a healthy and proper diet.

Irina Toropygina — dietitian, specialist in functional integrative nutrition, DNA testing specialist.

But it would be wrong to say that olive oil appeared in the Mediterranean diet only because its authors did not have sunflower at hand.

– Olive oil contains the main antioxidant – vitamin E. It protects the body from the effects of free radicals – substances formed under the influence of sunlight, cigarette smoke, polluted air and radiation. It is with these harmful substances that our liver is forced to fight, says gastroenterologist Galina Bartashevich. Olive oil also protects the nervous system from Alzheimer’s disease and depression.

Galina Bartashevich — gastroenterologist of the highest category, pediatric gastroenterologist, nutritionist, candidate of sciences.

Infographics: Vitaly Kalistratov / City portals

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Among other things, olive oil contains omega-9 – oleic acid, which helps lower blood sugar levels and fight “bad” cholesterol. Omega-3 in its composition helps to reduce the risk of developing cardiovascular diseases, and vitamin K fights blood clotting and lowers the content of prothrombin (a high level of prothrombin can indicate polycythemia, thromboembolism, malignant neoplasms and the threat of a heart attack).

Infographics: Vitaly Kalistratov / City portals

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But, like any product, olive oil has its own “harmful” properties. True, they are mainly associated with abuse. If you spoon it every day, instead of benefiting you, you risk getting overweight, low blood pressure and low blood sugar. In addition, patients with cholecystitis and those who are prone to allergic reactions should be treated with caution.

The benefits and harms of sunflower oil largely depend on the level of its purification. Unrefined oil undergoes minimal processing, except that it is filtered to remove heavy impurities. And such oil is usually eaten raw – for example, added to salads.

Infographics: Vitaly Kalistratov / City portals

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But refined oil, before getting to our tables, goes through the procedures of hydration, deodorization, freezing and bleaching. As a result of all these manipulations, it is cleared of harmful substances and free fatty acids, and it can be fried in such oil.

— Sunflower oil contains omega-6 and omega-9 fatty acids, which help lower blood cholesterol levels, says Irina Toropygina. – It also contains vitamins A, D, E, F. It normalizes the functioning of the gastrointestinal tract and the endocrine system, helps cleanse the liver, and prevents the development of atherosclerosis and thrombosis.

Infographics: Vitaly Kalistratov / City portals

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Sunflower oil, just like olive oil, can be harmful only when there is too much of it in the diet. The recommended daily serving of sunflower oil is 2-3 tablespoons. More will lead to problems with being overweight. Otherwise, there are no direct contraindications to its use, but you should be more careful if you have food intolerance, diabetes, pathologies of the liver, gallbladder and gastrointestinal tract.

Rancid sunflower oil that has deteriorated due to improper storage (for example, due to being in the sun for too long) can be dangerous. And certainly you should not fry in the same oil several times: with repeated heating of the same portion of oil, carcinogens are produced, and this increases the likelihood of cancer.

In the story of sunflower and olive oil, we are once again faced with the fact that “one dose makes the poison invisible.” In general, any vegetable oil is primarily a high-calorie product. Secondly, questions arise for him regarding cholesterol, the growth of which is affected by an increase in adipose tissue. Inflammatory factors increase the synthesis of not only total cholesterol itself, but also low-density lipoproteins (“bad” cholesterol) and triglycerides. In parallel, this reduces the ability to burn fats and use them as energy. And if we eat too many calories, generously adding vegetable oil to salads to make it more beneficial, then we get fat.

But there is one more thing worth paying attention to.

“Olive oil is the champion among products for the content of harmful end products of glycation, which accelerate aging and contribute to the development of cardiovascular diseases,” says endocrinologist Zukhra Pavlova. – The human body can process an average of 15 thousand units per day. And the lion’s share of AGE is produced by the body itself, in the process of life. So, in 100 grams of CNG olive oil – 11 900 units, while in unrefined sunflower – three times less, 3940 units.

Zukhra Pavlova – doctor – endocrinologist-andrologist, candidate of medical sciences.

The doctor notes that olive oil is well absorbed, but there are fewer polyunsaturated fatty acids and fat-soluble vitamins in it than in other oils.