11
GB
2 Useful Information
2.4
Blood
pressure
classification
2.5
Fluctuations in
blood pressure
2.6
Influencing
and evaluating
readings
The following table shows the classification of high and low blood pressure,
without taking age into consideration. This blood pressure assessment scale
corresponds to the guidelines of the World Health Organisation (WHO).
Low blood pressure Normal blood pressure
systolic below <100 systolic 100 – 140
diastolic below <60 diastolic 60 – 90
Types of high blood pressure
mild hypertension medium hypertension serious hypertension
systolic 140 – 159 systolic 160 – 179 systolic >=180
diastolic 90 – 99 diastolic 100 – 109 diastolic >=110
WARNING
Blood pressure that is too low represents just as great a health
risk as blood pressure that is too high! Fits of dizziness may lead
to dangerous situations arising (e.g. on stairs or in traffic)!
There are many factors that can influence blood pressure. Readings can be
affected by stress, fear, heavy physical exertion or the time of day at which they
are taken. Your personal blood pressure values are subject to considerable
fluctuation during the course of the day and the year. These fluctuations are
particularly pronounced in the case of patients suffering from hypertension.
Blood pressure is usually at its highest during physical exertion and at its lowest
at night when asleep.
• Measure your blood pressure several times, then record and compare the
results. Do not draw any conclusions from a single reading.
• Your blood pressure readings should always be evaluated by a doctor who is
also familiar with your personal medical history. When using the unit
regularly and recording the values for your doctor, you should visit the
doctor from time to time to keep him updated.
• When taking readings, remember that the daily values are influenced by
several factors. Smoking, consumption of alcohol, drugs and physical
exertion influence the measured values in various ways.
• Measure your blood pressure before meals.
• Before taking readings, allow yourself at least five minutes rest.
• If the systolic and diastolic readings seem unusual (too high or too low) on
several occasions, despite correct use of the unit, please inform your doctor.
This also applies to the rare occasions when an irregular or very weak pulse
prevents you from taking readings.
