Keeping track of your vital health signs is a good way to stay on top of your overall wellness. It’s easy to think your body is fine based on how you feel or look in the mirror, but tracking your numbers can push you into making healthy lifestyle changes to keep them in check.
Vital Signs (Temperature, Pulse, Respiration, Blood Pressure)
Medical professionals use the objective measurements of temperature, pulse, respiration and blood pressure to evaluate a person’s general physical status. These medical measurements give healthcare providers a window into a patient’s essential bodily functions and may provide clues about underlying diseases.
A pulse is a measure of the speed and strength of a person’s heartbeat. A normal adult will have a pulse between 60 and 100 beats per minute. When counting, concentrate on the pulse instead of looking at a clock.
Blood pressure measures the force of blood against the walls of the arteries. It is important to check your blood pressure often. Excessive blood pressure can lead to health complications, such as a stroke or heart disease.
Breathing Rate
Counting your breathing rate is one of the most overlooked vital signs. A regular resting breathing rate falls between 16 and 20 breaths per minute. Abnormal breathing can be a warning sign for lung and cardiovascular problems, including asthma, heart failure, and emphysema.
Taking the time to learn how to take your vital signs is critical for your overall wellbeing. It can help you detect any problems early on and make it easier to treat them effectively.