What is normal blood pressure by age?

What Is Normal Blood Pressure by Age?

Blood pressure measures the force of blood pushing against artery walls as your heart pumps. Maintaining a normal blood pressure is vital for overall health, reducing risks of heart disease, stroke and kidney problems. Because blood pressure naturally changes throughout life, “normal” values depend on age and growth patterns—especially in children and teens. Below is an age-based guide to typical blood pressure ranges, tips for monitoring and when to talk to a doctor.

Understanding Blood Pressure Readings

A blood pressure reading has two numbers, for example 118/76 mm Hg:

• Systolic pressure (top number) shows pressure when the heart contracts.
• Diastolic pressure (bottom number) shows pressure when the heart relaxes between beats.

According to the American Heart Association:

• Normal adult blood pressure is below 120/80 mm Hg.
• Elevated: 120–129/<80 mm Hg
• Stage 1 hypertension: 130–139/80–89 mm Hg
• Stage 2 hypertension: ≥140/90 mm Hg

Blood Pressure in Adults (18+)

Blood pressure trends upward with age due to arterial stiffening and lifestyle factors. These categories apply across adulthood:

• Normal: <120/80 mm Hg
• Elevated: 120–129 systolic and <80 diastolic
• **Stage 1 Hypertension:** 130–139 systolic or 80–89 diastolic
• **Stage 2 Hypertension:** ≥140 systolic or ≥90 diastolic
• **Hypertensive Crisis:** >180 systolic and/or >120 diastolic—seek emergency care

Health experts recommend regular checks every 2 years if readings are normal, every year if elevated, or more often if hypertension is present.

Blood Pressure by Age: Typical Adult Ranges

While categories stay the same, average numbers tend to rise slowly:

• Ages 18–39: around 115/75 mm Hg
• Ages 40–59: around 120/80 mm Hg
• Ages 60+: around 125–80 mm Hg

These are averages—individual targets may vary based on overall health, diabetes, kidney disease or heart conditions.

Children & Adolescents (2–17 years)

Children’s blood pressure is expressed as percentiles (similar to height/weight growth charts). Reference: Flynn JT & Kaelber DC (2017) Clinical Practice Guideline for Pediatrics.

• Normal: <90th percentile for age, sex and height
• Elevated (Pre-hypertension): ≥90th to <95th percentile
• Hypertension: ≥95th percentile

Exact percentiles require pediatric blood pressure charts, but typical average values by age group (mm Hg) are:

Age	Systolic	Diastolic
2–5 years	92–106	52–69
6–9 years	95–112	56–76
10–13 years	100–117	61–80
14–17 years	110–123	64–81

Because normal ranges vary by height and sex, clinicians use calculators or tables from the 2017 pediatric guideline.

Why Age Matters

• Growth & Development: Children’s hearts and vessels grow; percentiles adjust for these changes.
• Arterial Changes: As adults age, arteries lose elasticity, raising systolic values.
• Cumulative Factors: Over decades, diet, activity and stress shape long-term blood pressure.

Monitoring & Tracking Your Blood Pressure

Consistent monitoring helps catch trends early. Tips:

• Use a validated, automated cuff at home; ensure proper cuff size.
• Rest seated for 5 minutes before measuring; take two readings 1–2 minutes apart.
• Record date, time and position; track results in a diary or app.
• Share readings with your healthcare provider at annual checkups or as advised.

For new or worrying symptoms—like headaches or dizziness—you might consider doing a free, online symptom check for high blood pressure to help decide if you need immediate care.

Lifestyle Strategies to Maintain Healthy Blood Pressure

Small, sustained changes can keep your readings in the normal range:

• Diet: Follow the DASH diet (fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean protein, low salt).
• Activity: Aim for ≥150 minutes of moderate exercise (brisk walking, cycling) weekly.
• Weight Management: Losing even 5–10% of body weight can lower systolic pressure by 5–10 mm Hg.
• Limit Alcohol & Tobacco: Both raise blood pressure; quit smoking and drink moderately (≤1 drink/day for women, ≤2 for men).
• Stress Reduction: Practice mindfulness, yoga or deep breathing exercises daily.

When to Seek Medical Advice

Some situations require prompt evaluation:

• Consistent readings ≥130/80 mm Hg over several visits.
• Sudden blood pressure spikes (e.g., >180/120 mm Hg) with chest pain, confusion or vision changes.
• Worsening headaches, shortness of breath or unexplained fatigue.
• Existing heart, kidney or endocrine disorders.

Remember, only a healthcare professional can diagnose hypertension and recommend treatment. Never stop or alter prescribed medications without medical approval.

Key Takeaways

• Normal adult blood pressure: <120/80 mm Hg.
• Elevated & hypertensive categories begin at 120 systolic or 80 diastolic.
• Children use percentiles: normal is below the 90th percentile for age, sex and height.
• Monitor at home regularly and maintain healthy habits (diet, exercise, stress control).
• For worrying signs or consistently high readings, speak to a doctor—timely care reduces risks of heart attack, stroke and kidney damage.

Blood pressure norms change with age and individual health. Use this guide to understand general targets, but always rely on professional assessment for personal recommendations. If you ever experience serious symptoms—especially hypertensive crises—seek emergency help or contact your healthcare provider immediately.