VITAL SIGNS

 Vital signs are indicators that reflect the physiological state of the fundamental organs (brain, heart, lungs). They immediately express the functional changes that occur in the body, changes that otherwise could not be qualified or quantified. They are also known as the most basic functional measurements of the body. They provide guidance on health disorders.

Your vital signs show how well your body is working. They are usually measured in the doctor's office, often as part of a medical check-up, or during an emergency medical visit. These include:

Blood pressure, which measures the force of blood against the walls of the arteries. Blood pressure that is too high or too low can cause problems. Your blood pressure has two numbers. The first number is the pressure when the heart beats and pumps blood. The second is when the heart is resting between beats. A normal blood pressure reading for adults is less than 120/80 and greater than 90/60

Heart rate, or pulse, which measures how fast your heart beats. A problem with the heart rhythm can be an arrhythmia. Your normal heart rate depends on factors such as your age, amount of exercise, whether you are sitting or standing, the medications you take, and your weight.

The respiratory rate, which measures your breathing. Mild respiratory changes can be due to causes such as a stuffy nose or intense exercise. But slow or fast breathing can also be a sign of serious breathing problems.

Temperature, which measures how hot your body is. A body temperature that is higher than normal (more than 98.6ºF or 37ºC) is called a fever.