Blood Pressure Chart by Age: High, Low, Normal

Table of Content

• What is Blood Pressure, and How Does it Vary by Age?

• What are the Different Types of Blood Pressure Readings?

• Blood Pressure Charts- Different Ranges

• Blood pressure chart by Age

• Causes of High or Low Blood Pressure & Ways to Manage It

• Take-Home Points

• FAQ on Blood Pressure Chart by Age

Introduction

Blood pressure is an essential indicator of cardiovascular. As we age, the risk of developing high blood pressure increases due to various factors such as lifestyle, genetics, and underlying health conditions. Understanding the normal range of blood pressure by age is crucial for detecting and managing hypertension, a condition that can lead to severe complications such as heart attack, stroke, and kidney disease. In this blog, we will look at the blood pressure values for different age groups, causes for blood pressure variations, and ways to manage them.

What is Blood Pressure, and How Does it Vary by Age?

Blood pressure measures the force that your blood exerts against the walls of your blood vessels. It is a vital sign used by doctors to assess your overall health. A healthy blood pressure reading is around 120/80 mmHg but can vary depending on age.

Older adults tend to have higher average blood pressure readings than younger adults. This is because the body gradually loses its elasticity as we age, causing our arterial walls to become stiffer and thicker. This reduces the amount of blood flow space and results in higher blood pressure readings.

Elevated blood pressure can increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases such as heart attack and stroke, so all adults need to know their numbers and take steps to keep their blood pressure healthy. Regular exercise and limiting salt intake are two important ways to maintain healthy blood pressure levels. Keeping your weight within an acceptable range and quitting smoking are also important. It’s important to monitor your blood pressure at home or in your doctor’s office frequently, as it can vary with stress, diet, and medications.

What are the Different Types of Blood Pressure Readings?

Blood pressure readings are an important indicator of your overall health. It is essential to understand the different types of readings and what they mean to maintain a healthy lifestyle. There are two main types of blood pressure readings: systolic and diastolic. Systolic is the highest reading which measures the force the heart exerts on the walls of the arteries each time it beats, while diastolic is the lowest reading and measures the force the heart exerts on the arteries' walls between beats.

Each type of blood pressure reading can provide valuable information about your cardiovascular health and help you make informed decisions about your lifestyle.

Blood Pressure Charts- Different Ranges

Blood pressure charts provide information on the different blood pressure ranges, including normal, low, and high blood pressure. Knowing the different ranges can help you understand your blood pressure readings and take steps to maintain a healthy lifestyle.

Low blood pressure chart

Medications or an underlying disease can sometimes cause a person's blood pressure to drop below normal levels, which can lead to falls, fainting, and dizziness. It is important to investigate the underlying cause and seek treatment if this occurs.

Normal Blood Pressure Chart

The above blood pressure readings are healthy. You have a much lower risk of heart disease and stroke at this level. Following a healthy lifestyle will help you to keep it in the healthy range.

High blood pressure chart

• Elevated blood pressure is when blood pressure readings consistently range from 120-129 systolic and less than 80 mm Hg diastolic. People with elevated blood pressure will likely develop high blood pressure unless steps are taken to control the condition.

• Hypertension Stage 1 is when blood pressure is usually between 130-139 systolic or 80-89 mm Hg diastolic. At this stage, doctors will usually recommend lifestyle changes and may prescribe medication based on the patient's risk of cardiovascular disease.

• Hypertension Stage 2 is when blood pressure readings are 140/90 mm Hg or higher. A combination of lifestyle modifications and medications is generally recommended for this stage.

• A hypertensive crisis is a stage that requires medical attention. If a person's blood pressure readings suddenly exceed 180/120 mm Hg, they should wait five minutes and take a second reading. If the readings are still high, they should contact medical care immediately.

Blood pressure chart by Age

The chart shows normal blood pressure according to female and male age.  Systolic Blood Pressure and Diastolic blood pressure are included in the chart.

1. Blood pressure chart by Age for women

2. Blood pressure chart by Age for men

Causes of High or Low Blood Pressure & Ways to Manage It

High or low blood pressure can be the result of several factors, including lifestyle, genetics, existing medical conditions, and medications. Understanding these underlying causes is the first step to managing them.

Lifestyle plays a huge role in influencing blood pressure levels. Being overweight or obese, having an unhealthy diet, not getting enough physical activity, smoking, and drinking too much alcohol can all lead to high blood pressure. Conversely, eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and maintaining a healthy weight can help to lower your blood pressure levels.

Genetics can also play a role in determining a person's blood pressure levels, as some people are genetically predisposed to hypertension. A family history of high blood pressure increases one's risk of developing the condition.

Certain medical conditions such as diabetes, kidney problems, hormonal imbalances, and thyroid issues can also cause high blood pressure. The same goes for certain medications such as birth control pills, cold medicines, and decongestants.

To manage blood pressure, it’s important to make lifestyle changes such as eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, getting enough sleep, reducing stress, and limiting alcohol consumption. Your doctor may also recommend lifestyle modifications and medications to help control your blood pressure. Staying on top of your numbers is important, as high or low blood pressure can have serious consequences if left untreated.

High and low blood pressure can have severe consequences on your health. High blood pressure, or hypertension, increases the risk of stroke, heart attack, heart failure, and even death. Low blood pressure, or hypotension, can cause dizziness, fainting, and fatigue. Left untreated, high and low blood pressure can lead to serious health problems such as organ damage, vision loss, and cognitive decline. It is important to monitor your blood pressure regularly and take action if it is too high or too low. 

Take-Home Points

• Blood pressure readings vary based on age. Generally, normal blood pressure ranges between 110/75 mm Hg and 130/85 mmHg. 

• Readings outside this range can be classified as high or low and can increase the risk of health complications. 

• Factors such as age, gender, weight and physical activity can also affect blood pressure levels. 

• It is important to have regular blood pressure checks to make sure your readings remain at a healthy level.