Blood pressure is a crucial indicator of overall health. It is the measure of the force of blood against the walls of the arteries as the heart pumps blood through the body.
High blood pressure (hypertension) can be dangerous and cause heart disease, stroke, and kidney damage. Low blood pressure (hypotension) can also be a sign of an underlying problem and lead to dizziness, fainting, and even shock. It is essential to know the ideal blood pressure range by age to stay healthy and prevent these problems.
The American Heart Association recommends that every adult should know their blood pressure numbers and regularly monitor it. Blood pressure readings have two numbers: systolic pressure (top number) and diastolic pressure (bottom number).
The systolic pressure measures the pressure in the arteries when the heart beats, and the diastolic pressure measures the pressure in the arteries between heartbeats.
Ideal Blood Pressure Range by Age
It is crucial to know the ideal blood pressure range by age because blood pressure naturally changes throughout life. Here is a table of the ideal blood pressure range for different age groups:.
| Age Group | Ideal Blood Pressure Range |
|---|---|
| Newborns | 64/41 mmHg |
| Infants (1-11 months) | 74/37 mmHg |
| Toddlers (1-2 years) | 86/42 mmHg |
| Preschoolers (3-5 years) | 91/52 mmHg |
| School-age children (6-13 years) | 104/62 mmHg |
| Teenagers (14-17 years) | 118/74 mmHg |
| Adults (18-39 years) | 119/75 mmHg |
| Adults (40-59 years) | 129/80 mmHg |
| Seniors (60 years and above) | 135/85 mmHg |
Why Blood Pressure Changes with Age
Aging is a natural process that affects the human body in various ways, including blood pressure. Blood pressure naturally increases with age because the arteries become stiffer and less elastic due to calcium and other deposits in the artery walls.
It is also related to lifestyle choices, such as diet, exercise, and smoking.
Generally, women tend to have lower blood pressure than men of the same age. However, after menopause, women’s blood pressure tends to increase and equalizes with men’s levels.
Related Article
Blood pressure goals by age (table)
What Happens If Blood Pressure is Too High or Too Low?
If blood pressure is too high or too low, it can cause adverse health effects.
High Blood Pressure (Hypertension)
High blood pressure is a significant risk factor for heart disease, stroke, and kidney damage.
It usually has no symptoms, which is why it is commonly referred to as the “silent killer.” If it is not controlled, it can lead to serious health problems, such as:.
- Heart attack
- Stroke
- Kidney damage
- Vision loss
- Memory loss
- Sexual dysfunction
There are several lifestyle changes and medications that can help reduce high blood pressure.
Low Blood Pressure (Hypotension)
Low blood pressure can also cause problems, though it is less common than high blood pressure. It can cause dizziness, lightheadedness, and even fainting. Low blood pressure can be a symptom of an underlying medical condition, such as:.
- Heart problems
- Hormonal imbalances
- Blood loss
- Dehydration
- Medications
It is essential to talk to a doctor if you experience low blood pressure regularly to determine the underlying cause and proper treatment.
Conclusion
Knowing the ideal blood pressure range by age is vital to maintain good health and prevent problems.
Blood pressure naturally changes throughout life, and it is important to monitor it regularly and make lifestyle changes and take medication as necessary to maintain healthy blood pressure levels.
