Is my Blood Pressure Normal?

Blood pressure refers to the pressure inside your arteries as blood pumps around your body. It can give an indication of how well your heart is working and your overall health.

High blood pressure, known as hypertension, can indicate underlying health concerns and may be a risk factor for conditions such as heart disease, kidney disease or stroke if left untreated.

Low blood pressure, known as hypotension, isn’t usually a problem but it can lead to symptoms such as dizziness and fainting.

Blood pressure readings vary from person to person, and different factors such as your age and medical history can affect your reading. It can also change throughout the day, depending on things such as physical activity, stress and sleep. Your doctor will advise a normal range for you, taking these factors into consideration.

What is normal blood pressure by age?

Your blood pressure will be taken via an inflatable cuff which is wrapped around your upper arm. A pressure gauge records two numbers in units called millimeters of mercury (mm Hg). The numbers are given one over the other, with the top number referred to as systolic pressure and the bottom number diastolic pressure.

Systolic pressure is the pressure measured every time your heart contracts, and diastolic pressure is the pressure measured when the heart relaxes.

A blood pressure reading of around 120/80 mm Hg is considered a typical reading. A reading of 130/85 mm Hg or above is borderline-high, and anything above 140/90 is considered high. A reading below 90/60 mm Hg is considered low.

In adults, this can vary by age and gender with average blood pressure readings falling into the following ranges:

Age                  Men                  Women

18 to 39 years 119/70 mm Hg 110/68 mm Hg

40 to 59 years 124/77 mm Hg 122/74 mm Hg

60 years and above 133/69 mm Hg 139/68 mm Hg

When should I be concerned about my blood pressure?

It is possible to have high blood pressure with no noticeable symptoms and to feel well. Therefore, it is important to see your doctor regularly for a blood pressure test as part of an overall wellness check-up.

Catching high blood pressure early and making changes to control it is important for your heart health and can help to prevent many serious health conditions.