Our body continuously undergoes a series of physical changes that are controlled by the brain and nervous system. All these physical changes need to stay within a certain range to maintain a healthy functioning body.
The four most basic bodily measurements that signal your overall health are your pulses, temperature, blood pressure and breathing.
Pulsation Rate
Our heart is responsible for pumping and circulating blood throughout the body. The pulse rate is nothing but the number of times your heart beats per minute.
Normal range of resting pulse rate for adults ranges approximately between 60-100 beats per minute. However, athletes or individuals who maintain a fit lifestyle might have a lower pulse rate of 50-60 bpm.
One should consult a doctor if their pulse rate frequently falls below or above the normal range. It could be a cause for concern as it may signify underlying heart disease or other medical conditions such as Thyroid disorders, Anemia or an infection.
Body Temperature
The average body temperature of an adult body is 98.6 F/37 C. However, body temperature may fluctuate slightly depending on several factors such as time of the day, activity levels or menstrual cycle.
Body temperature rises temporarily after having a meal or during physical exertion.
The normal temperature range during different activities can vary and should not necessarily be alarmed by.
High temperatures that persist beyond 24 hours and persist even after the use of fever-reducing agents should be immediately consulted with a medical doctor as it could represent an underlying infection.
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Understanding Normal Pulses, Temperature, Pressure, and Breathing
Blood Pressure
Blood pressure is the force exerted by blood while flowing through the body’s arteries. A normal and healthy individual has a blood pressure reading of 120/80 mm Hg.
A reading higher than the average range may signify high blood pressure which is a cause for concern. High blood pressure, if not controlled, could lead to serious health conditions such as stroke or heart disease.
A blood pressure reading above 140/90 mm Hg is classified as hypertension and should be consulted with a doctor immediately.
On the other hand, a blood pressure reading lower than the normal range is classified as hypotension. Hypotension may cause dizziness and fatigue, and may be caused due to conditions such as dehydration, severe blood loss, or a hormonal imbalance.
Breathing Rate
Breathing rate refers to the rate at which an individual inhales and exhales in a minute.
The normal breathing rate for adults is between 12 – 20 breaths per minute, which can vary depending upon the person’s fitness routine and overall health.
Respiratory issues such as Asthma, Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and bronchitis can cause an increase or decrease in breathing rate. And, any infection or lack of oxygen supply can manifest in an irregular breathing rate.
Conclusion
Measuring the four basic bodily functions of pulses, temperature, blood pressure and breathing rate is an important parameter to understand your overall physical health.
Any deviation from the average range mentioned above for the four bodily functions might lead to underlying medical conditions that should be consulted with a doctor. A timely diagnosis and professional expert help could avert underlying health issues.
