Blood pressure is a crucial aspect of human health that is often overlooked until a problem arises. It refers to the pressure exerted by blood against the walls of blood vessels, particularly arteries. Blood pressure is an essential measure of how effectively the heart is pumping blood throughout the body. In this article, we will explore the definition, origin, meaning, associations, synonyms, antonyms, root words, and example sentences related to blood pressure.
Definitions
Blood pressure is the pressure exerted by the blood on the walls of blood vessels, especially arteries. It is expressed in millimeters of mercury (mmHg) and measured using a sphygmomanometer. Blood pressure is determined by two factors: systolic pressure and diastolic pressure. Systolic pressure is the pressure when the heart contracts, while diastolic pressure is the pressure when the heart is at rest.
Origin
The concept of blood pressure dates back to ancient Greece, where physicians believed that blood was the source of life. However, it was not until the 17th century that the first accurate measurement of blood pressure was recorded. The Italian physician Santorio Santorio invented the first device to measure blood pressure, called the pulsilogium.
Meaning in different dictionaries
According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, blood pressure is “the pressure exerted by the blood upon the walls of the blood vessels, especially arteries, usually measured by means of a sphygmomanometer and expressed in millimeters of mercury either as a fraction having as numerator the maximum pressure that follows systole of the left ventricle of the heart and as denominator the minimum pressure that accompanies cardiac diastole or as a whole number representing the first value only.”
Associations
High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, is a common health problem that affects millions of people worldwide. It can lead to serious health complications such as heart disease, stroke, and kidney failure. Low blood pressure, also known as hypotension, can cause dizziness, fainting, and other symptoms.
Synonyms
Synonyms of blood pressure include arterial pressure, vascular pressure, and circulatory pressure.
Antonyms
Antonyms of blood pressure include blood flow and blood volume.
The same root words
The same root words as blood pressure include blood, pressure, and vessel.
Example Sentences
- The doctor checked my blood pressure and said it was high.
- I have to take medication to control my blood pressure.
- Low blood pressure can cause fainting and dizziness.
- Regular exercise can help lower your blood pressure.
- The nurse used a sphygmomanometer to measure my blood pressure.