While not necessary for most people, knowing your blood pressure is a good way to get a quick glimpse at your heart health. Blood pressure is the pressure of blood flowing through the body and against the walls of blood vessels after blood leaves the heart.
The two parts of blood pressure measurements are systolic (pressure in the heart after it contracts) and diastolic (pressure in the heart when at rest or filling with blood). The American Heart Association states an acceptable systolic measurement is ≤ 120 while an acceptable diastolic reading is ≤ 80.
You will need a stethoscope and a blood pressure cuff or someone / somewhere that has one to measure your blood pressure. Most pharmacies like Walgreens or CVS have blood pressure machines you can use to get a quick reading.
