Getting screened

Untreated and uncontrolled high blood pressure can damage the blood vessels of the organs.What do your blood pressure numbers mean?

- Systolic blood pressure (the top number): the pressure in your vessels when your heart beats
- Diastolic blood pressure (the bottom number): the pressure in your vessels when your heart is resting between beats

Parkland Health follows the guidelines set by the American Heart Association. Blood pressure readings are measured in mmHg, millimeters of mercury.