Blood pressure measures the force with which blood pushes against artery walls as the heart pumps it throughout the body. A reading of 103/64 millimeters of mercury (mmHg) is generally considered healthy and desirable for an adult. This reading places you well within the range associated with optimal heart function and low cardiovascular risk. Although this reading is on the lower side of the standard range, it is not low enough to be classified as clinically concerning low blood pressure unless you are experiencing symptoms.
Understanding Systolic and Diastolic Pressure
A blood pressure measurement always consists of two distinct numbers, each representing a different phase of your cardiac cycle. The first, or top, number is the systolic pressure, which measures the force in your arteries as your heart muscle contracts and pushes blood out into the body.
The second, or bottom, number is the diastolic pressure, which measures the pressure in your arteries when your heart is at rest, between beats. This diastolic phase is when the heart chambers refill with blood, and the measurement reflects the residual pressure within the vessels during this period of relaxation. Both the systolic and diastolic numbers provide valuable information about the health and flexibility of your blood vessels and the overall function of your circulatory system.
Classification of 103/64
Medical guidelines classify blood pressure into several categories to help assess cardiovascular risk. A blood pressure reading of 103/64 mmHg falls squarely into the “Normal” category. Normal blood pressure is defined as a systolic pressure less than 120 mmHg and a diastolic pressure less than 80 mmHg.
Your systolic pressure of 103 mmHg is below the 120 mmHg threshold for “Elevated” blood pressure, and your diastolic pressure of 64 mmHg is below the 80 mmHg threshold. This reading is often described as optimal, as it indicates minimal strain on your heart and arteries. The threshold for Stage 1 Hypertension begins at a systolic reading of 130 mmHg or a diastolic reading of 80 mmHg.
While 103/64 is a healthy reading, it is close to the general definition of hypotension, or low blood pressure, which is typically considered a reading below 90/60 mmHg. A blood pressure that is naturally on the lower side of normal is often associated with excellent health and a lower risk of cardiovascular disease.
Recognizing Symptoms of Hypotension
Clinical hypotension is technically defined as a reading below 90/60 mmHg. For many healthy people, a reading like 103/64 is simply their normal operating pressure and causes no problems. However, if your blood pressure drops too low, it can lead to insufficient blood flow to the brain and other organs, causing noticeable symptoms.
Common signs that your blood pressure may be too low include lightheadedness or dizziness, particularly when you stand up quickly. Other symptoms can involve general weakness, fatigue, blurred vision, or feeling unsteady. In more significant cases of hypotension, a person may experience fainting (syncope).
If you have a reading of 103/64 and consistently feel well, no action is usually necessary. Low blood pressure is only considered a medical concern when it produces symptoms that negatively impact your daily life or if it is caused by an underlying medical condition. You should consult a healthcare professional if you experience any of these symptoms.