Vererõhku

Vererõhk is the Estonian term for blood pressure, which is the pressure of circulating blood on the walls of blood vessels. It is a vital sign used to assess a person's cardiovascular health. Blood pressure is typically measured in millimeters of mercury (mmHg) and is expressed as two numbers: systolic pressure and diastolic pressure.

Systolic pressure, the higher number, represents the pressure in the arteries when the heart beats and pumps blood. Diastolic pressure, the lower number, represents the pressure in the arteries when the heart is at rest between beats. A normal blood pressure reading for an adult is generally considered to be around 120/80 mmHg.

Elevated blood pressure, known as hypertension, is a condition where the blood pressure is consistently too high. This can increase the risk of serious health problems such as heart disease, stroke, kidney failure, and vision loss. Conversely, low blood pressure, or hypotension, can cause dizziness, fainting, and in severe cases, can be a sign of underlying medical issues.

Factors influencing blood pressure include age, genetics, lifestyle choices (such as diet, exercise, and smoking), stress, and certain medical conditions. Regular monitoring of vererõhk is recommended, especially for individuals with risk factors for hypertension or other cardiovascular diseases. Medical professionals use blood pressure readings to diagnose and manage various health conditions.