Blood pressure is the force your heart uses to push blood through the arteries and veins (blood vessels) . When blood pressure is consistently above normal it is called hypertension.
The heart is like a pump. When it contracts, it forces blood through the blood vessels and pressure increases: SYSTOLIC PRESSURE. When the heart relaxes between beats, the pressure decreases: DIASTOLIC PRESSURE. Most physicians consider a "normal" blood pressure reading for an adult to be 120/80. The systolic pressure is recorded first, then the diastolic. Your physician may consider other readings normal so CONSULT YOUR PHYSICIAN to determine your "normal" blood pressure.
Blood pressure fluctuates constantly. Your readings can vary throughout the day due to physical activity, medications you may be taking, your emotional state, or other physical or psychological factors.