Blood pressure is more than just a medical reading—it’s a critical indicator of cardiovascular health. It reflects how hard your blood pushes against artery walls during and between heartbeats, and abnormal readings often go unnoticed until complications arise.
Understanding blood pressure and how it changes with age is key to protecting your long-term health. High or low readings can lead to serious conditions if left unmonitored.
Hypertension, or high blood pressure, increases the risk of heart disease, stroke, kidney problems, vision loss, and even cognitive decline. Hypotension, or low blood pressure, may cause dizziness, fainting, and reduced oxygen supply to vital organs.
Normal blood pressure is measured in two numbers: systolic (pressure during heartbeats) and diastolic (pressure between beats). A typical healthy reading is around 120/80 mm Hg, though this varies by individual needs and risk factors.
General categories include:
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Low: <90 / <60
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Optimal: <120 / <80
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Normal: 120–129 / 80–84
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High-normal: 130–139 / 85–89
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High: ≥140 / ≥90
These ranges help doctors guide treatment and prevention strategies tailored to each person.
In children and teens, blood pressure is assessed differently. Pediatricians compare readings to percentile charts based on age, height, and gender. Newborns may have readings as low as 60/20 mm Hg, while teens’ values align more closely with adult norms.
As people age, blood pressure often increases due to stiffening arteries, changes in kidney and hormone function, and lifestyle factors. By your 50s or 60s, a rise in systolic pressure is common—even if you’re otherwise healthy.
Fortunately, there are proven strategies to maintain healthy blood pressure. A heart-smart diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins can help, especially if sodium and processed foods are minimized.
Regular physical activity—at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise weekly—supports circulation and overall heart function. Managing stress, avoiding smoking, and limiting alcohol are also important habits.
Good sleep plays a major role. Aim for 7–9 hours of restful sleep nightly, as poor sleep has been linked to elevated blood pressure. Regular checkups and home monitoring provide early warnings of potential issues.
Finally, always consult your doctor. They can help determine your ideal blood pressure range and guide your
