Normal Blood Pressure Ranges: Know Your Numbers
Knowing the healthy ranges for blood pressure is essential for your well-being. Blood pressure readings include two figures: the systolic and diastolic pressures. Let’s break down these terms and the standard ranges you should be aware of. First off, it’s important to grasp the concept of blood pressure.
What Does Blood Pressure Mean?
It’s the force your blood applies to the walls of your arteries as it’s pumped by your heart. This force is necessary for circulating blood throughout your body, delivering oxygen and nutrients.
Understanding the Numbers
Systolic Blood Pressure
- Definition: This is the first number in a blood pressure reading. It measures the pressure in your arteries when your heart beats.
- Normal Range: Generally, a normal systolic pressure is below 120 mmHg.
Diastolic Blood Pressure
- Definition: This is the second number. It measures the pressure in your arteries between heartbeats when your heart is resting.
- Normal Range: For diastolic pressure, a normal reading is below 80 mmHg.
Categories of Blood Pressure
- Normal Blood Pressure: As mentioned, a normal reading is a systolic number under 120 and a diastolic number under 80 mmHg.
- Elevated Blood Pressure: When your readings frequently range between 120-129 systolic and under 80 mmHg diastolic.
- Hypertension Stage 1: Characterized by consistent readings from 130-139 systolic or 80-89 mmHg diastolic.
- Hypertension Stage 2: This more severe stage is when blood pressure consistently reads at 140 mmHg systolic or higher or 90 mmHg diastolic or higher.
- Hypertensive Crisis: A reading over 180/120 mmHg is a hypertensive crisis and requires immediate medical attention.
Why These Numbers Matter
You might wonder why it’s important to keep track of these numbers. Well, it is vital because high blood pressure can cause heart disease, stroke, and kidney issues. Low blood pressure, while less common, can also indicate health problems.
How to Maintain Normal Blood Pressure
- Lifestyle Choices: Eating a balanced diet, getting regular exercise, managing stress, avoiding excessive salt and alcohol, and not smoking can help maintain healthy blood pressure.
- Regular Monitoring: Keeping an eye on your blood pressure, especially if you have a history of hypertension, is crucial. You can do this at home with a blood pressure monitor or by visiting your healthcare provider.
