Myths about blood pressure, heart rate, debunked
Blood pressure and heart rate go hand in hand (or arm in cuff) in most people’s minds. After all, these two vital signs are measured together at the doctor’s office. But the two measure distinct factors related to your heart health. Blood pressure is the force of blood flowing against the walls of your arteries, while heart rate (or pulse) is the number of times your heart beats every minute. However, experts have explained some key differences and refuted some common myths about the condition. Blood pressure and heart rate are always linked False: It is true that blood pressure and heart rate often rise and fall together. When you face danger, for example, your blood pressure and pulse may both jump upward at the same time. However, if your heart rate rises, that doesn’t automatically mean your blood pressure will rise or vice versa. When the two are disconnected, you may be looking at a specific problem. For example, if your blood pressure is consistently high,