Final answer:
Blood pressure measurements in the leg account for additional hydrostatic pressure due to the height difference from the heart. Normal blood pressure is under 120/80 mm Hg, and elevations above this range, particularly a systolic pressure of 130 mm Hg or higher, may indicate hypertension and are associated with various health risks.
Step-by-step explanation:
Understanding Blood Pressure Measurements
When measuring blood pressure in the lower extremity, such as the leg, it is important to consider the hydrostatic pressure caused by the height difference between the heart and the point of measurement. If the heart's pressure is 120/80 mm Hg (systolic/diastolic), and the cuff is placed 0.500 m below the heart, gravity will increase the pressure observed in the leg. The pressure due to the weight of the blood column (hydrostatic pressure) can be calculated using the density of blood and the acceleration due to gravity.
Normal blood pressure is considered to be less than 120/80 mm Hg, while hypertension is clinically diagnosed when the blood pressure is 130/80 mm Hg or higher. High systolic pressure is associated with health risks, which is why maintaining a systolic pressure around 115 mm Hg is advised. Blood pressure management through medication and lifestyle changes like diet and exercise is crucial for cardiovascular health.
Several factors, such as medication, lifestyle changes, and monitoring, play a role in managing hypertension. These strategies help prevent serious complications, including heart attack, stroke, aneurysm, peripheral arterial disease, chronic kidney disease, and heart failure. Blood pressure is typically measured with a sphygmomanometer.