Normal Blood Pressure for Adults

Introduction

Blood pressure (BP) is a vital sign that reflects the force of blood pushing against the walls of the arteries. It is measured in millimeters of mercury (mmHg) and recorded as systolic pressure/diastolic pressure (e.g., 120/80 mmHg).

Normal Blood Pressure Range

The American Heart Association (AHA) and the European Society of Cardiology (ESC) define normal BP as:

  • Normal: Less than 120/80 mmHg
  • Elevated BP (Prehypertension): 120–129/<80 mmHg
  • Hypertension (High BP):
    • Stage 1: 130–139 or 80–89 mmHg
    • Stage 2: ≥140 or ≥90 mmHg
    • Hypertensive crisis: >180 or >120 mmHg (seek immediate medical attention)

Why is Blood Pressure Important?

Blood pressure fluctuation can have serious consequences: - Low BP (Hypotension): Can lead to dizziness, fainting, and shock in severe cases. - High BP (Hypertension): Increases the risk of heart disease, stroke, kidney failure, and other complications.

Lifestyle Factors Affecting BP

Factors that Increase BP:

  • High salt intake
  • Sedentary lifestyle
  • Excess alcohol or caffeine
  • Stress
  • Smoking
  • Obesity

Factors that Help Maintain Normal BP:

  • A balanced diet (DASH diet recommended)
  • Regular physical activity (at least 150 minutes per week)
  • Reducing salt intake
  • Controlling stress
  • Avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol
  • Maintaining a healthy weight

When to See a Doctor?

  • If BP is consistently 130/80 mmHg or higher
  • If there are symptoms like dizziness, headaches, blurred vision, or chest pain
  • If BP readings are very high (>180/120 mmHg)

Conclusion

Monitoring blood pressure regularly and maintaining a healthy lifestyle is key to preventing cardiovascular diseases. If you are at risk of hypertension, consult your doctor for an individualized approach to management.

Source recommendations

1. American Heart Association (AHA) Hypertension Guidelines

  1. https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/high-blood-pressure/understanding-blood-pressure-readings
  2. https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/hyp.0000000000000065
  3. https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/high-blood-pressure
  4. https://professional.heart.org/en/guidelines-and-statements
  5. https://www.heart.org/

2. European Society of Cardiology (ESC) Hypertension Guidelines

  1. https://www.escardio.org/Guidelines/Clinical-Practice-Guidelines/Elevated-Blood-Pressure-and-Hypertension
  2. https://academic.oup.com/eurheartj/article/45/38/3912/7741010
  3. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37345492/
  4. https://academic.oup.com/eurheartj/article/39/33/3021/5079119
  5. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23771844/

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