The heart is a very important organ of our body. It has its own pacemaker that enables it to function properly and efficiently. During systole (blood is pushed out of the heart into the aorta), there is the highest pressure in the arteries, which changes during diastole - it is the lowest. For doctors, both the patient's systolic and diastolic pressure values are crucial during diagnosis. Both values are always recorded, e.g. 130/ 70 mm Hg. Many patients with blood pressure problems have to keep a diary in which they record their values in the morning, afternoon and evening.

Blood pressure is constantly changing in humans. These can be of the following nature:

1. Long-term, which is usually due to the patient's age, but is also strongly related to the patient's state of health.
2. Medium-term (transient - dependent on the patient's activity, mental and emotional state).
3. Short-term, related solely to the cardiac cycle, which in some cases can be disturbed.

For people with blood pressure problems, regular blood pressure measurements are crucial. These can be carried out using the Korotkow method (using a doctor's headphones and a sphygmomanometer).

Both blood pressure that is too high and blood pressure that is too low pose a risk to the patient's health and life. In order to determine which type of blood pressure you are dealing with, it is important to pay attention to the accompanying symptoms and measurement results.

For about 90% of patients with hypertension, the cause is unknown. The direct causes are still being sought. Today, we know that age (ageing) and any disturbances in the neurohormonal system (secretion of transmitters responsible for regulating blood pressure) have a very important influence. Special attention has also been paid to genetic predisposition and any external factors (diet, addictions, stress).

In most cases, the body sends out various warning signals indicating that an increase in blood pressure has occurred. The most common are: sudden nosebleeds, a feeling of constant fatigue and weakness (despite regular rest and good nutrition), pain in the back of the head, a feeling of stiffness in the neck, neck, excessive excitability, insomnia, tinnitus, dizziness and visual disturbances. Many patients also experience chest pain. All of the above symptoms make it difficult for patients to function normally and efficiently in everyday life. They lead to distraction, memory problems, irritability and disorientation. In some occupations, they pose a direct threat to the patient's life. In most cases, hypertension requires specialised treatment. We should not underestimate the first symptoms.

Arterial hypotension is also calledhypotension. It is referred to when the measurable blood pressure is below 100/60 mmHg. In most cases, it is found in children and young people who are underweight. Too low a pressure very often leads to palpitations, frequent fatigue, problems with concentration, focus, lack of energy, nausea, vomiting, tinnitus and cold hands and feet. Many patients also mention here an accelerated heart rate, pale skin, extreme sensitivity to pain, sweating and breathing problems. A sudden, excessive drop in blood pressure can lead to fainting.

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With regard to the cause of low blood pressure, it is divided into:

1. Primary hypotonia, which can be genetic and develops spontaneously.
2. Secondary hypotonia, which is most often the result of various problems and conditions related to the circulatory system. Dehydration, hypothyroidism of the anterior lobe of the thyroid gland and adrenal cortex are also worth noting here.
3. Orthostatic hypotonia, which in most cases occurs as a result of irregularities in the intake of certain medications.

Most patients initially underestimate the first symptoms of too low blood pressure. Over time, however, they begin to make it difficult for them to function normally and efficiently in everyday life. In the case of syncope, they become very dangerous for patients. If you are very unwell with low blood pressure, you should see a specialist. After a specialised physical examination and diagnosis, treatment will be instituted.

Hypotension can be treated pharmacologically; however, this is not a common practice. In most cases, non-pharmacological treatment is undertaken, which involves following the doctor's instructions. Among these are:

1. Eating smaller meals but more frequently.
2. Frequent changes of body position (staying in one position has a bad effect on blood flow).
3. Taking short rests during the day.
4. Staying in the fresh air.
5. Taking care of regular physical activity e.g. cycling, gym, swimming.
6. Stopping smoking.
7. Getting enough sleep.
8. Massage upon waking.
9. Drinking plenty of fluids.
10. Adequate diet.

Both too high and too low blood pressure have a negative impact on a person. It makes it difficult to perform the simplest activities during the day, but also to rest at night. We should remember not to underestimate the first symptoms. Before deciding to take pharmacological treatment, it is worth trying to change your lifestyle. This does not only mean eating properly, but also giving up stimulants, engaging in physical activity and getting enough rest. Pharmaceuticals are not always the solution to our problems. Medication is used as a last resort in the case of blood pressure disorders.