- Introduction
- What is blood pressure?
- Systolic vs. Diastolic
- Which is more important: systolic or diastolic blood pressure?
- Ranges
- What are the different blood pressure ranges (normal and high blood pressure)?
- Blood Pressure Chart
- What are the normal blood pressure readings by age and gender?
- Causes
- What causes high blood pressure?
- Symptoms
- What are the symptoms of high blood pressure?
- Treatment
- How to treat high blood pressure
- FAQ
- Frequently asked questions (FAQs) about blood pressure readings
What is blood pressure?
Blood pressure can be categorized into five different types normal, elevated, hypertension stage I, hypertension stage II, and hypertensive crisis.
Blood pressure is the force applied by the blood over the inner walls of the arteries. Although the average blood pressure (120/80 mmHg) for a person remains constant, it shows minor fluctuations throughout the day, declining while relaxing and momentarily increasing while being excited or under stress.
Learn how to read blood pressure charts and understand blood pressure readings effectively.
How to understand a blood pressure reading
Blood pressure is produced primarily by the contraction of the heart muscle.
A blood pressure reading consists of two numbers:
- The first number (systolic pressure) is measured after the heart contracts and the pressure is at the highest. This tells you the force of your blood against the artery walls when your heart beats.
- The second number (diastolic pressure) is measured before the heart contracts and pressure is at its lowest. This tells you what your blood pressure is when your heart is at rest between heartbeats.
Hence, a blood pressure (BP) reading of 120/80 mm Hg means 120 is the systolic number, and 80 is the diastolic number.
Which is more important: systolic or diastolic blood pressure?
Both systolic and diastolic blood pressure are vital indicators of heart health.
- Systolic blood pressure (the higher/top number in a blood pressure reading) measures the pressure in your blood vessels when your heart pumps blood.
- Diastolic blood pressure (the lower/bottom number) measures the pressure in your blood vessels when your heart is resting between beats.
Some doctors or healthcare providers focus on the first (systolic pressure) number. A high systolic blood pressure reading is a major marker for heart disease if you are older than 50 years. As you age, systolic blood pressure steadily increases from the chronic buildup of plaque and stiffness of your arteries. Elevated systolic blood pressure increases your risk of cardiac and vascular diseases.
Systolic or diastolic blood pressure readings may both be used to diagnose high blood pressure. Recent studies report the risk of death for people between the ages of 40 and 89 years due to ischemic heart disease and stroke doubles with every 20 mm Hg systolic or 10 mm Hg diastolic reading.
Various factors, including age, diet, exercise, stress, and genetics can influence both systolic and diastolic blood pressure. If you are at risk for high blood pressure, learn how to use a home blood pressure monitor and understand the blood pressure monitor readings. Check your blood pressure regularly and work with your healthcare provider to manage it if it is too high.
What are the different blood pressure ranges (normal and high blood pressure)?
Blood pressure is measured in mm Hg (millimeters of mercury). A blood pressure cuff is used to measure the pressure. Blood pressure readings below 120/80 mm Hg are considered a healthy blood pressure range. Elevation of blood pressure (high blood pressure) is called "hypertension".
The American Heart Association (AHA) has defined what is normal blood pressure and what is considered high blood pressure. The five blood pressure ranges recognized by the AHA blood pressure categories are:
- Normal
- Elevated
- Hypertension stage 1
- Hypertension stage 2
- Hypertensive crisis
While many focus on the dangers of high blood pressure (hypertension), low blood pressure (hypotension), when dangerously low, can also pose a threat.
If blood pressure ranges lower than 120/80 mm Hg is said to be ideal, and the lower the better, then what is considered low blood pressure? Anything below 90/60 mm Hg is considered to be low blood pressure. In cases of hypotension, a diastolic blood pressure reading of 60 mm Hg or below is considered low blood pressure, even if your systolic blood pressure reading is 120 mm Hg, which is considered normal. Generally, having low blood pressure is good, and it is normal for some people. Hypotension is a cause for alarm only when accompanied by symptoms of low oxygen as well.
Your blood pressure reading will determine which blood pressure category you belong to. The higher your blood pressure reading, the higher your risk factor for certain conditions, such as cardiovascular disease and kidney disease. High blood pressure can damage your blood vessels, kidneys, and brain if left untreated.
Blood pressure can be categorized into low, normal, high, hypertension stage I/II (heart disease, and stroke risk), and hypertensive crisis.
Blood pressure readings can be categorized into the following types:
| Category | Systolic (mm Hg) | Diastolic (mm Hg) | Management |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dangerously low | 50 or lower | 33 or lower | A critical condition that requires emergency medical attention with IV fluids |
| Very low | 60 or lower | 40 or lower | Lifestyle modifications with medications |
| Low | Less than 90 | Less than 60 | Lifestyle modifications and regular checkups |
| Normal | Less than 120 | Less than 80 | Active lifestyle |
| Elevated | 120-129 | 80 or more | Doctors may recommend lifestyle changes at this stage |
| Hypertension stage I | 130-139 | 80-89 | Doctors may prescribe blood pressure medications and some lifestyle changes to reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke. |
| Hypertension stage II | 140-159 | 90-99 | Doctors may prescribe a combination of medications and lifestyle changes; they may treat complications that may have increased due to high blood pressure. |
| Hypertensive crisis | 180 or higher | 120 or higher | A critical condition that requires emergency medical attention |
| *Blood pressure is measured in mm Hg (millimeters of mercury) | |||
Contact your healthcare provider or Call 911 immediately if the following symptoms are experienced:
- Shortness of breath
- Chest pain
- Back pain
- Numbness/weakness
- Change in vision
- Difficulty speaking
What are the normal blood pressure readings by age and gender?
Broadly, normal blood pressure is considered to be below 12/80 mm Hg, however, blood pressure readings can vary by age and gender. Children typically have lower blood pressure than adults, as blood pressure tends to increase with age. For instance, what is normal blood pressure for a 13-year-old female may be considered low blood pressure for a 65-year-old male.
The charts below show normal blood pressure for children, and for adults according to age, both male and female. Diastolic blood pressure (DBP) and Systolic Blood Pressure (SBP) are included in the charts.
| Age | SBP (mm Hg) | DBP (mm Hg) |
|---|---|---|
| Neonate | 60-90 | 20-60 |
| Infant | 87-105 | 53-66 |
| Toddler | 95-105 | 53-66 |
| Preschooler | 95-110 | 56-70 |
| School-aged child | 97-112 | 57-71 |
| Adolescent | 112-128 | 66-80 |
| Age | SBP (mm Hg) | DBP (mm Hg) | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Male | 21-25 | 120.5 | 78.5 |
| 26-30 | 119.5 | 76.5 | |
| 31-35 | 114.5 | 75.5 | |
| 36-40 | 120.5 | 75.5 | |
| 41-45 | 115.5 | 78.5 | |
| 46-50 | 119.5 | 80.5 | |
| 51-55 | 125.5 | 80.5 | |
| 56-60 | 129.5 | 79.5 | |
| 61-65 | 143.5 | 76.5 | |
| Female | 21-25 | 115.5 | 70.5 |
| 26-30 | 113.5 | 71.5 | |
| 31-35 | 110.5 | 72.5 | |
| 36-40 | 112.5 | 74.5 | |
| 41-45 | 116.5 | 73.5 | |
| 46-50 | 124 | 78.5 | |
| 51-55 | 122.55 | 74.5 | |
| 56-60 | 132.5 | 78.5 | |
| 61-65 | 130.5 | 77.5 |
In 2017, the American College of Cardiology and American Heart Association updated their guidelines to recommend men and women ages 65 or older aim for a blood pressure lower than 130/80 mm Hg. As of 2022, however, the ideal blood pressure for seniors is considered to be 120/80 (systolic/diastolic), which is the same for younger adults. The high blood pressure range for seniors starts at hypertension stage I, ranging between 130/80 and 139/89.
| Guidelines | 18 to 59 years of age (mm Hg) | 60 to 69 years of age (mm Hg) | 70 to 79 years of age (mm Hg) | Older than 80 years (mm Hg) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2022 American Academy of Family Physicians | Less than 140/90 | Less than 140/90 | Less than 140/90 | Less than 140/90 |
| 2022 National Institute for Health and Care Excellence | Less than 140/90 | Less than 140/90 | Less than 140/90 | Less than 150/90 |
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What time of the day is blood pressure highest?
Blood pressure tends to be highest in the morning (morning hypertension) because the body releases stress hormones such as adrenaline when waking up, which can cause blood pressure to increase. It is thought to be related to the body's natural circadian rhythms, as well as the fact that you have been lying down for several hours and are starting to move around again.
Blood pressure is also usually higher when standing up than when sitting or lying down because gravity causes more blood to flow to your lower body. Additionally, blood pressure can increase in response to physical activity, stress, and certain medications. However, if blood pressure remains consistently high throughout the day, it may be a sign of hypertension or high blood pressure.
Other factors may impact blood pressure readings:
- Physical activity: Blood pressure tends to increase during periods of physical activity due to the increased demand for blood flow to the muscles. Therefore, it is generally recommended to check your blood pressure before engaging in physical activity.
- Stress: Stress and anxiety can also lead to an increase in blood pressure because your body's "fight or flight" response, which is activated in response to stress, causes the heart to beat faster and the blood vessels to constrict.
- Medications: Some medications, such as stimulants and decongestants, can cause an increase in blood pressure. If you are taking any medications that can affect your blood pressure, it is essential to discuss this with your healthcare provider.
Blood pressure can vary throughout the day and can be affected by various factors. Checking your blood pressure at different times of the day can give you a more accurate picture of your overall blood pressure profile.
What causes high blood pressure?
There are many potential causes of high blood pressure (hypertension), including:
- Genetics: High blood pressure can run in families, so if you have a family history of hypertension, you may be more likely to develop it.
- Age: Blood pressure tends to increase with age because your blood vessels become less flexible.
- Lifestyle factors: Certain lifestyle factors can contribute to high blood pressure, including:
- Poor diet (high in salt, fat, and processed foods)
- Lack of physical activity
- Smoking
- Excessive alcohol consumption
- Stress
- Being overweight or obese
- Medical conditions: Some medical conditions can also cause or contribute to high blood pressure, including:
- Diabetes
- Kidney disease
- Sleep apnea
- Thyroid problems
- Adrenal gland disorders
- Certain medications: Some medications can increase blood pressure, including certain types of birth control pills, decongestants, and steroids.
- Race: Some racial and ethnic groups, such as African Americans, are at higher risk of high blood pressure.
What are the symptoms of high blood pressure?
High blood pressure can damage the blood vessels, heart, and other organs if left untreated. In most cases, high blood pressure does not have noticeable symptoms, which is why it is often referred to as a "silent killer."
There are some signs and symptoms that may indicate a person has high blood pressure, such as:
- Headaches: People with high blood pressure may experience frequent or severe headaches, especially at the back of the head. Persistent or severe headaches can be a sign of high blood pressure, especially if accompanied by other symptoms such as dizziness or blurred vision.
- Dizziness: High blood pressure can cause dizziness, especially when standing up suddenly, or after physical activity. Dizziness or lightheadedness is usually due to reduced blood flow to the brain.
- Chest pain: Also known as angina, and a possible sign of high blood pressure, chest pain can occur when the heart is not getting enough blood and oxygen. Chest pain can also be a sign of high blood pressure if it is accompanied by other symptoms such as shortness of breath, nausea, and sweating.
- Shortness of breath: High blood pressure can cause shortness of breath, especially during physical activity.
- Fatigue: People with high blood pressure may feel tired or exhausted even after a good night's sleep. Chronic high blood pressure can lead to fatigue due to the extra strain on the heart and other organs.
- Nosebleeds: Nosebleeds may be a sign of high blood pressure, especially if they occur frequently. High blood pressure can cause the blood vessels in the nose to become fragile and prone to bleeding.
- Vision problems: High blood pressure can cause damage to the blood vessels in the eyes, leading to blurred vision. High blood pressure can cause changes in vision or even temporary vision loss.
- Nausea: Some people with hypertension may experience nausea or vomiting. If it is severe, high blood pressure can cause damage to organs such as the liver or kidneys.
- Flushing: Some people with high blood pressure may experience flushing or a feeling of warmth in the face.
- Trouble sleeping: High blood pressure can cause sleep problems such as insomnia or sleep apnea.
- Persistent coughing: High blood pressure can cause a persistent cough, especially at night.
- Irregular heartbeat: Hypertension can cause an irregular heartbeat or palpitations.
- Blood in the urine: In rare cases, high blood pressure can cause blood in the urine.
These signs and symptoms may not necessarily be caused by high blood pressure, but be a result of other conditions. If you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to consult a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis and treatment.
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How to treat high blood pressure
Ultimately, high blood pressure (hypertension) can damage the blood vessels in your kidneys and prevent them from working properly. Additionally, untreated hypertension can result in numerous health conditions, such as cardiovascular disease.
Lifestyle changes and regular exercise can help treat high blood pressure.
Some of the suggested lifestyle changes by the physicians are as follows:
- Quit smoking
- Lose weight
- Avoid or limit alcohol intake
- Eat a low-sodium and low-fat diet such as the DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) diet
- Avoid too much stress
- Eat foods rich in potassium, magnesium, and calcium such as bananas and milk
- Regular monitoring of blood pressure after reaching the age of 35 years
- Practice meditation and other stress-relieving exercises
- Cut back on caffeine
The physicians may prescribe the following medications:
- Diuretics
- Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors
- Alpha-blockers
- Beta-blockers
- Calcium channel blockers
- Vasodilators
How to treat low blood pressure
Low blood pressure (hypotension) can be prevented or treated using the following methods:
- Consume lots of fluids
- Limit alcoholic drinks
- Stay hydrated, especially during hot weather, or during viral flu
- Drink more nonalcoholic drinks
- Exercise regularly to encourage blood flow
- Avoid sitting or standing quickly
- While rising, take care to sit upright for a few seconds and then get off the bed
- Stay away from heavy lifting
- Avoid standing still for a prolonged time
- Avoid straining while passing stools
- Avoid prolonged exposure to hot water such as saunas, hot water springs, and spas
- Compression stocking covering the thigh and calf restricts the blood flow to the lower part of the body
- Try eating smaller, more frequent meals to avoid post-meal dizziness
- Any consumption of over-the-counter medications should be reported to the physician
Medications such as fludrocortisone or midodrine may also help to treat low blood pressure.
From 
Heart Health Resources
Frequently asked questions (FAQs) about blood pressure readings
How to lower diastolic blood pressure
It is not possible to lower only diastolic blood pressure. If you follow a heart-healthy lifestyle, both diastolic and systolic blood pressure will go down.
How to naturally lower blood pressure
Some natural ways to lower your blood pressure:
- Follow a healthy diet that includes whole grains, fruits, and vegetables. Avoid processed foods, and foods high in saturated fats. Reduce salt intake.
- Stay adequately hydrated with water, or healthy fruit or vegetable juices. Avoid, or limit sodas and alcohol.
- Exercise regularly and maintain a healthy weight.
- Do not smoke.
- Learn and practice breathing exercises, and calming techniques to manage stress.
What causes high blood pressure in young adults?
The risk factors for hypertension in young adults are similar to those in older adults.
The primary causes of high blood pressure in young adults are:
- Tobacco use
- Excessive alcohol consumption
- Unhealthy eating habits
- High salt intake
- Obesity
- Sedentary lifestyle
- Family history
Medically Reviewed on 4/15/2024
References
https://www.webmd.com/heart/qa/what-medications-are-used-to-treat-low-blood-pressure
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4998762/
https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/high-blood-pressure/understanding-blood-pressure-readings
American Heart Association. “Understanding Blood Pressure Readings.” Last reviewed: May 30, 2023. https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/high-blood-pressure/understanding-blood-pressure-readings
National Library of Medicine. PubMed Central. “Risk Factors Associated With Hypertension in Young Adults: A Systematic Review.” https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10181897/
