define blood pressure readings
High blood pressure is a common disease in which blood flows through blood vessels (arteries) at higher than normal pressures. Measuring Blood Pressure. Blood pressure is the force of blood pushing against the walls of the arteries as the heart pumps blood. High blood pressure, sometimes called hypertension, happens when this force is too high. Health care workers check blood pressure readings the same way for children, teens, and adults. They use a gauge, stethoscope or electronic sensor, and a blood pressure cuff. With this equipment, they measure: Systolic Pressure: blood pressure when the heart beats while pumping blood