What is normal blood pressure by age?

Because blood pressure usually shows no symptoms until major damage has occurred, it is sometimes referred to as the "silent killer." Characterized by the constant force of blood pushing against the walls of your arteries, this disorder can silently cause kidney failure, heart disease, and stroke. Because of its deceptive nature, regular blood pressure monitoring is critical for maintaining optimal health throughout your life. Preventing serious medical problems is primarily dependent on understanding what your numbers suggest and how they change with age.

Before we get into the specifics of blood pressure by age, we need to first understand the basics. Blood pressure measurements are based on two numbers: systolic and diastolic. The one at the top, the systolic value, measures artery pressure during a heartbeat. On the bottom, the diastolic value measures the pressure your heart creates between beats. These numbers, when combined, provide a picture of your cardiovascular health.

A blood pressure value of 120/80 mm Hg, for example, means that the systolic pressure is 120 and the diastolic pressure is 80. The American Heart Association (AHA) provides clear recommendations for what is normal, elevated, or dangerously high.

Adult Normal Blood Pressure: An All Around Guid

The AHA sets blood pressure ranges for adults twenty years of age and above as follows:

• Normal is systolic less than 120 and diastolic less than 80; elevated is systolic between 120-129 and diastolic less than 80.Stage 1 Hypertension: Either systolic between 130-139 or diastolic between 80-89.
• Stage 2 Hypertension: Systolic at least 140 or diastolic at least 90Hypertensive Crisis: Systolic above 180 and/or diastolic over 120

These categories provide a guidance for knowing your blood pressure, however individual differences can arise. Finding your normal and making sure your blood pressure stays within a reasonable range depend on regular visits to your doctor.

Unlike adults, who have relatively simple blood pressure recommendations, determining what is normal for children and adolescents is more complicated. Young people's blood pressure varies widely depending on their age, height, and weight, therefore parents should get accurate readings and assessments from a pediatrician. Children's blood pressure patterns change as they grow, and what is considered normal changes as well; therefore, regular monitoring becomes even more important throughout these formative years.