What is Blood pressure?
Blood pressure measures the force or pressure exerted by blood within your arteries. With every heartbeat, your heart pumps blood into the arteries that distribute it throughout your body. This occurs 60 to 100 times with every heartbeat, daily throughout the week. Your body needs oxygen and nutrients to operate, which are delivered by arteries.
The importance of your blood pressure measurements and what they indicate.
Your blood pressure is indicated by two figures:
The starting value indicates systolic blood pressure. It evaluates the pressure your blood exerts on the artery walls with every heartbeat. A blood pressure reading of 120 in 120/80 mmHg indicates systolic blood pressure.
The second digit represents diastolic blood pressure. It evaluates the force your blood exerts against the arterial walls as the heart rests between beats. A blood pressure reading, such as 80 in 120/80 mmHg, indicates diastolic blood pressure.
Both figures are essential in determining whether blood pressure reaches are within a healthy range or reflective of possible health concerns.
Measure blood pressure
The ideal time to check your blood pressure is when you are sitting comfortably. Blood pressure is usually measured using a cuff that inflates and wraps around your upper arm. This cuff is part of a device known as a sphygmomanometer.
Your blood pressure adjusts to fulfill your body's requirements. If a reading is high, your doctor may check it several times before diagnosing high blood pressure.
Using a monitoring device, your doctor might advise you to take your blood pressure at home. 24-hour ambulatory blood pressure monitoring is a procedure in which your blood pressure is checked frequently (usually every 20 to 30 minutes) as you go about your everyday activities, including while you sleep.
Normal Blood Pressure Ranges with Age
Age-related variations in blood pressure are caused by lifestyle choices, genetics, and overall health.
Age-related ranges give a more accurate picture, even though a healthy adult's ideal blood pressure is normally around 120/80 mmHg.
For healthy individuals, the ideal blood pressure is approximately 120/80 mmHg.
Given that their cardiovascular systems are still developing, children and teenagers typically have lower blood pressure.
Due to the aging and straining of their arteries, middle-aged people may have mild increases in blood pressure.
While diastolic pressure may stay constant, older adults usually have lower systolic pressure.
Tracking blood pressure ranges specific to age enables the early detection and management of potential health issues.
Why blood pressure fluctuate?
Your blood pressure doesn't remain steady at all times. It varies based on what you're engaged in. When you are engaged or excited, your blood pressure increases. While you rest, your blood pressure decreases.
Your blood pressure may also vary due to
Age.
Medicines you take.
Lifestyle changes.
Sudden change in position.
Why Blood Pressure important to measure?
Hypertension, known as the "silent killer," generally presents no symptoms. It may damage your heart, kidneys, and brain before you become aware of the impending issues. Elevated blood pressure is a major risk factor for heart disease. Without treatment, high blood pressure can result in:
Stroke
Heart attack
Heart failure
Aneurysms.
Peripheral Arterial diseases
Kidney disease
Pulmonary embolism
Vision problems
Severe Headache
Blood Pressure Chart for Different Age Groups
Age Group | Normal BP Range (mmHg) |
Children (6-13 years) | 110/70 to 120/80 |
Adolescents (14-18) | 115/75 to 120/80 |
Adults (19-40) | 120/80 to 130/85 |
Middle-aged (41-60) | 125/80 to 135/88 |
Seniors (61+) | 130/85 to 140/90 |
Risks of Hypertension (High Blood Pressure)
You are more likely to have high blood pressure if:
Have a family history of hypertension
Are 60 years or older
Have high cholesterol
Overweight
Diabetes
Tobacco use
Consume foods with heavy salt
Unhealthy diet
Physical inactivity
Consumption of Alcohol
Smoking
Lack of sleep
Risks of Hypotension (Low Blood Pressure)
Hypotension, or low blood pressure, carries the following risks:
Blurred vision
Nausea
Dizziness
Confusion
Stroke risk
Impaired cognitive function
Shock
Fatigue
Weakness
Possible Concerns Related to Blood Pressure by Age
As people grow older, blood vessels naturally become less elastic, and systolic pressure often rises. Though this is a typical physiological change, it may also suggest the presence of conditions such as arteriosclerosis.
For younger individuals, stress, a poor diet, or lack of exercise can cause variations in blood pressure. Adjustments during early life can help reduce long-term risks.
Advice for Keeping Blood Pressure in Healthy Ranges
Incorporate whole grains, fresh fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and low-fat dairy items. Reduce intake of salt, sugar, and saturated fats.
Engage in at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise, like walking, swimming, or cycling, on most days during the week.
Practice mindfulness, yoga, or meditation to reduce blood pressure spikes triggered by stress.
Maintain a healthy way of living.
Reduce alcohol consumption and steer clear of smoking; both can elevate blood pressure and harm blood vessels.
Losing indeed a small amount of excess weight can significantly enhance blood pressure.
Regular checks help track progress and identify changes beforehand.
Reach out to Artemis Hospital for the management of Blood Pressure.
For assistance and guidance with our Internal Medicine specialists on managing your blood pressure, get in touch with us today at 91-124-451-1111 or message us on WhatsApp at 91-959-928-5476. You have the option to schedule an appointment through our online patient portal or download the Artemis Personal Health Record mobile app, which can be accessed on both iOS and Android devices. Your health is our priority—let us help you maintain a healthy heart and lifestyle.
Article By Dr. P Venkata Krishnan
Sr. Consultant - Internal Medicine
Artemis Hospitals
Frequently Asked Questions
What's normal BP as per age?
Normal BP varies with age. For adults, it's generally 120/80 mmHg, but seniors may have slightly higher adequate ranges up to 140/90 mmHg.
Is BP 140/90 normal range?
No, a reading of 140/90 mmHg or higher is classified as hypertension, requiring life changes or medical intervention.
What range of blood pressure is OK?
A healthy range is 90/60 mmHg to 120/80 mmHg, but it may vary based on individual health conditions.
Is 120 a normal BP?
Yes, 120/80 mmHg is considered the optimal blood pressure for most adults.
Why does blood pressure change?
Blood pressure varies due to:
Age, lifestyle changes
Emotional state
Food and drink intake
Sleep patterns
Environmental factors
Why does blood pressure matter?
Blood pressure serves as a vital indicator of overall cardiovascular health and affects every organ system in your body. Its significance extends far beyond simple figures
Systemic Impact
Directly influences heart health and effectiveness
Affects kidney function and filtration
Impacts brain health and cognitive function
Influences vision and eye health
Affects overall circulation and tissue health
Who's at risk of getting high blood pressure?
Risk factors include
Family history
Age over 60
Obesity
Lifestyle
High salt intake
Alcohol consumption
Smoking
Stress
When is blood pressure checked?
Blood pressure should be checked:
During routine medical visits
At home if monitoring is recommended
When symptoms occur
Before and during pregnancy
When starting new medications
What treatments are available for high blood pressure?
Treatment options include:
Lifestyle variations
Dietary changes
Regular exercise
Medication( if specified)
Stress management
Regular monitoring
How do I prepare for a blood pressure measurement?
Preparation steps:
Avoid caffeine for 30 minutes prior
Empty bladder
Sit still for 5 minutes
Keep feet flat on the bottom
Support arm at heart level
Are there side effects to blood pressure measurement?
Blood pressure measurement is safe with no significant side effects. Temporary discomfort from cuff pressure may occur.
What blood pressure is too high?
Understanding dangerous blood pressure levels can help you recognize when to seek immediate medical attention. Emergency Levels:
Readings above 180/120 mmHg constitute a hypertensive crisis
Immediate medical attention is required
Organ damage may occur at these levels
Symptoms may include severe headache, vision changes, or chest pain
What blood pressure is too low?
Generally, readings below 90/60 mmHg are considered too low if accompanied by symptoms.
Which blood pressure number is more important?
Both numbers are important, but systolic pressure is frequently considered a stronger predictor of cardiovascular threat.
What are the Effects of Abnormal Blood Pressure?
The long-term consequences of uncontrolled blood pressure can be severe and far-reaching.
High blood pressure affects cardiovascular impact.
Progressive heart enlargement and weakness
Increased risk of heart attacks and stroke
Development of arterial aneurysms
Formation of blood clots
Organ System Damage
Kidney failure
Retinal damage and vision loss
Dementia risk
