Ever wondered what the doctor meant when he said, “Your diastolic pressure is below normal!”?

Well if you did, I have got the answer for you. And that too, without using any technical, difficult and medical jargon!

Actually, it’s not that difficult. And nothing likes rocket science or something. In fact it’s quite interesting and people who are not related to the field of medicine can also easily understand and benefit from it. We all have heard about terms like High blood pressures, Low blood pressures, Hypotension, Hypertension etc, and this is because these terms are quite commonly used by people around us. Even from those who do not have any medical background so it would be wise to get into a bit detail of a much-talked-about term, blood pressure.

Considering the above mentioned definition, one would wonder how we can determine the exact value of a person’s blood pressure. It’s very simple. By using a device, known as “Sphygmomanometer,” we can easily note down the blood pressure values. (The best way is to take 2 or three readings at a time and then taking out an average for a much authentic value.)

One single blood pressure reading consists of two separate values that represent the pressure of blood during two different times; first, when the heart is beating and second, when it is in a rest state.

This brings me to the definition of Diastolic Blood pressure, which is:

“The measure of the pressure with which the heart pushes blood to the blood vessels when the heart is in a relaxed position (in between heartbeats) is called the diastolic blood pressure.”

How can we measure Diastolic Pressure? Let me explain this in a step-by-step process.

- Get hold of the Sphygmomanometer device along with the combination of a Stethoscope.

- Wrap the cuff of the fabric around the arm of the person.

- Attach the gauge to the fabric cuff to show the pressure reading.

- Inflate to a certain level (above 120) and then release the air slowly.

- Note down the top (systolic) and the bottom (diastolic) pressure reading.

- Repeat the process 2 to 3 times and take out an average.

Several factors affect our Diastolic Pressure such as:

- Posture

- Amount of exercise undertaken

- Stress and tension

- Use of nicotine and such compounds

If a constant abnormal diastolic value is seen, then it is very important to take the essential precautions and a healthy lifestyle along with expert medical advice is required to ensure normal Diastolic pressure.