Diastolic Blood Pressure

Blood pressure is always given as two numbers, the systolic and diastolic pressures and both are important. The systolic pressure is the top number, and the diastolic pressure is the bottom number (for example, 130/80).  If your blood pressure is 130/80, you say that it is "130 over 80".

Both of these numbers do not need to be high for you to have elevated blood pressure.  Either one or both numbers can be raised for you to have elevated blood pressure.

The diastolic blood pressure is an especially important factor for younger people as research has shown a higher diastolic blood pressure is an important risk factor for heart attacks, strokes, kidney failure, and other serious conditions.

As people become older, especially after the age of 55, their diastolic pressure begins to decrease and the systolic blood pressure more often than not begins to rise and becomes more significant.

A rise in the systolic blood pressure will also increase the possibility of heart attacks, strokes, kidney failure, and other serious conditions.

Your physician will use both the systolic and the diastolic blood pressure to determine your blood pressure category and appropriate prevention and treatment activities you may need. If you have any concerns about your blood pressure no matter what age you are, you should always ensure you get it checked out.