Cardiovascular Health Quiz

Blood Pressure (BP)

• BP is the pressure exerted by blood against the walls of blood vessels.
• It's a crucial measure of cardiovascular function.
• Measured as systolic (highest pressure) over diastolic (lowest pressure), in mmHg.
• Normal resting BP is typically below 120/80 mmHg.
• Factors affecting BP include blood volume, vascular resistance, and heart rate.

Cardiac Output (CO)

• CO is the volume of blood pumped by the heart per minute.
• Calculated as heart rate (HR) multiplied by stroke volume (SV).
• HR is the number of heartbeats per minute.
• SV is the volume of blood ejected from the heart with each beat.

Hypertension

• Hypertension is high blood pressure (≥130/80 mmHg, as of 2017).
• Current definition results in more people being classified as hypertensive.
• Lifestyle changes may be sufficient, without necessarily needing medication.
• Can contribute to cardiovascular disease.

Measuring BP

• Indirect measurements use a sphygmomanometer and stethoscope.
• Sounds (Korotkoff phases) created by blood flow through the artery are listened to.
• Cuff size is important for accurate BP measurements.
• Arm should be free of clothing and in a relaxed position.

Factors impacting BP measurements

• Body position (e.g., supine vs. standing) can influence BP.
• Stress (white coat syndrome) can increase readings.
• Hydration and exercise affect BP.
• Medical conditions affect it as well.

Test your knowledge on blood pressure, cardiac output, and hypertension. This quiz covers essential concepts related to cardiovascular health, including measurements and factors affecting blood pressure. Challenge yourself with questions designed to deepen your understanding of these critical health topics.