Blood pressure, the force of blood pushing against the walls of your arteries, is a measure of cardiovascular health. This pressure is generated as your heart pumps blood throughout your body, delivering oxygen and nutrients. Monitoring blood pressure regularly helps identify potential issues early, allowing for proactive steps to maintain overall well-being. Unmanaged variations in blood pressure can impact various bodily systems over time.
Understanding Blood Pressure Numbers
A blood pressure reading consists of two numbers, expressed as millimeters of mercury (mm Hg). The first, or upper, number, is the systolic pressure, which measures the force when your heart beats and pumps blood into your arteries. The second, or lower, number, is the diastolic pressure, reflecting the pressure in your arteries when your heart rests between beats.
Blood pressure is categorized into several ranges for adults. A normal reading is less than 120 mm Hg systolic and less than 80 mm Hg diastolic. Elevated blood pressure falls between 120-129 mm Hg systolic and less than 80 mm Hg diastolic. Hypertension is divided into two stages: Stage 1 is 130-139 mm Hg systolic or 80-89 mm Hg diastolic, while Stage 2 is 140 mm Hg or higher systolic or 90 mm Hg or higher diastolic. A hypertensive crisis occurs when readings exceed 180 mm Hg systolic and/or 120 mm Hg diastolic.
Blood Pressure Targets for Different Ages
Blood pressure targets can vary considerably depending on age, reflecting the body’s changing physiology and individual health profiles.
For children and adolescents, blood pressure is not assessed using the same fixed numbers as adults. Instead, normal and elevated blood pressure levels are determined based on percentile charts that account for a child’s age, sex, and height. A reading below the 90th percentile is considered a target for those under 13 years of age.
As children transition into adolescence, absolute blood pressure values become more relevant. For these adolescents, elevated blood pressure is defined as a systolic reading between 120-129 mm Hg with a diastolic reading less than 80 mm Hg. Hypertension is diagnosed if readings are 130/80 mm Hg or higher.
For young and middle-aged adults without other health conditions, the target blood pressure remains below 120/80 mm Hg. Some guidelines suggest that for adults under 65, a target below 130/80 mm Hg can be recommended. Maintaining these levels helps reduce the risk of cardiovascular events later in life.
For older adults, blood pressure targets may be adjusted to balance cardiovascular protection with the potential for medication side effects. While a goal of less than 120/80 mm Hg is often ideal, a slightly higher target of below 140/90 mm Hg is considered acceptable for this age group. Some recommendations for those over 65 suggest targeting a systolic blood pressure between 130-139 mm Hg, if tolerated.
Individuals with co-existing conditions, such as diabetes or chronic kidney disease, often require more stringent blood pressure control regardless of age. For these individuals, a target blood pressure below 130/80 mm Hg is advised to help mitigate disease progression and associated complications. These guidelines underscore the personalized nature of blood pressure management.
Influences on Blood Pressure and Healthy Habits
Numerous factors can influence blood pressure. Lifestyle choices play a significant role, including dietary habits, regular physical activity, and maintaining a healthy body weight. High sodium intake, excessive alcohol consumption, and smoking are contributors to elevated blood pressure. Chronic stress can also temporarily raise blood pressure, and prolonged stress can contribute to hypertension.
Genetic predispositions can influence an individual’s likelihood of developing high blood pressure, even with healthy lifestyle choices. Underlying health conditions, such as kidney disease, thyroid disorders, or sleep apnea, can also impact blood pressure levels.
Adopting a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, such as the DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) diet, can support healthy blood pressure. Regular physical activity, aiming for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week, strengthens the heart and improves blood vessel function. Limiting sodium intake to less than 2,300 milligrams per day, and ideally less than 1,500 milligrams for many adults, is also beneficial. Quitting smoking and reducing alcohol consumption are additional actions that improve blood pressure control.
Seeking Professional Medical Advice
Regular monitoring of blood pressure is an important tool for maintaining health. Since high blood pressure often presents without noticeable symptoms, routine checks by a healthcare professional are the only way to detect it. Home blood pressure monitoring can also provide information between office visits.
Consulting a healthcare provider is essential for an accurate diagnosis and to establish personalized blood pressure targets. They can interpret readings within the context of your medical history, lifestyle, and other health conditions. Self-diagnosing or making changes to prescribed medications based solely on general information is not recommended. A medical professional can develop a comprehensive management plan tailored to your needs, which may include lifestyle adjustments or medication.