Blood Pressure Chart by Age
Blood pressure is measured in millimeters of mercury (mmHg) with two numbers: systolic (when the heart beats) over diastolic (when the heart rests). Here are the normal ranges by age group.
| Age Group | Normal Systolic (mmHg) | Normal Diastolic (mmHg) | Category |
|---|---|---|---|
| Newborn (0-1 month) | 60-90 | 20-60 | Normal |
| Infant (1-12 months) | 87-105 | 53-66 | Normal |
| Toddler (1-5 years) | 95-110 | 53-69 | Normal |
| Child (6-13 years) | 97-112 | 57-71 | Normal |
| Adolescent (14-18) | 112-128 | 66-80 | Normal |
| Young Adult (19-40) | 95-135 | 60-80 | Normal |
| Middle Age (41-60) | 110-145 | 70-90 | Normal |
| Senior (61+) | 95-145 | 70-90 | Normal |
Blood Pressure Categories (Adults)
| Category | Systolic (mmHg) | Diastolic (mmHg) | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Normal | Less than 120 | and | Less than 80 |
| Elevated | 120-129 | and | Less than 80 |
| High BP Stage 1 | 130-139 | or | 80-89 |
| High BP Stage 2 | 140+ | or | 90+ |
| Hypertensive Crisis | 180+ | and/or | 120+ |
💡 Key Takeaway: A normal blood pressure reading is below 120/80 mmHg. Readings consistently above 130/80 mmHg are considered high blood pressure (hypertension) and may need medical attention.
What Affects Blood Pressure?
- Age: Blood pressure naturally increases with age as arteries become stiffer
- Weight: Being overweight increases strain on the heart
- Diet: High sodium intake raises blood pressure; potassium helps lower it
- Exercise: Regular physical activity helps maintain healthy levels
- Stress: Chronic stress contributes to elevated readings
- Genetics: Family history plays a significant role
- Smoking: Raises blood pressure and damages blood vessels
- Alcohol: Excessive drinking increases blood pressure
How to Lower Blood Pressure Naturally
- Reduce sodium intake to under 2,300 mg/day (ideally 1,500 mg)
- Exercise at least 150 minutes per week (brisk walking counts)
- Maintain a healthy weight (even losing 5-10 lbs helps)
- Follow the DASH diet (fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean protein)
- Limit alcohol to 1 drink/day for women, 2 for men
- Manage stress through meditation, deep breathing, or yoga
- Quit smoking
- Monitor your blood pressure at home regularly