Normal Blood Pressure by Age
Blood pressure (BP) is the force of blood pushing against the walls of the arteries. It is recorded as two numbers:
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Systolic pressure: The pressure when the heart beats.
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Diastolic pressure: The pressure when the heart rests between beats.
Blood pressure is measured in millimeters of mercury (mm Hg) and written as systolic over diastolic (for example, 120/80 mm Hg).
Normal Blood Pressure in Children
In children, normal blood pressure varies based on age, sex, and height. Unlike adults, hypertension in children is determined using percentile charts. Below are general average ranges by age:
Newborn (0–1 month)
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60–90 systolic / 20–60 diastolic
Infant (1–12 months)
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80–100 systolic / 55–65 diastolic
Toddler (1–3 years)
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90–105 systolic / 55–70 diastolic
Preschool (3–5 years)
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95–110 systolic / 60–75 diastolic
School Age (6–12 years)
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95–120 systolic / 60–80 diastolic
Teenager (13–17 years)
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100–120 systolic / 65–80 diastolic
A child is generally diagnosed with high blood pressure if readings are at or above the 95th percentile for their age, sex, and height on multiple occasions.
Normal Blood Pressure in Adults (18 Years and Older)
For adults, blood pressure categories are standardized regardless of age.
Normal
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Less than 120 systolic and less than 80 diastolic
Elevated
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120–129 systolic and less than 80 diastolic
High Blood Pressure (Hypertension) Stage 1
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130–139 systolic or 80–89 diastolic
High Blood Pressure (Hypertension) Stage 2
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140 or higher systolic or 90 or higher diastolic
Hypertensive Crisis
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180 or higher systolic and/or 120 or higher diastolic
Immediate medical attention is required.
Blood Pressure in Older Adults
Although normal blood pressure is defined as less than 120/80 mm Hg, treatment targets for older adults may vary. Many healthcare providers aim for a target below 130/80 mm Hg in healthy older adults. However, in some individuals, especially those who are frail or have multiple health conditions, a target below 140/90 mm Hg may be considered appropriate.
Treatment goals should always be individualized based on overall health and risk factors.
Factors That Influence Blood Pressure
Several factors can affect blood pressure levels, including:
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Age
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Family history
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Diet (especially salt intake)
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Physical activity
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Body weight
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Stress levels
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Smoking and alcohol use
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Underlying medical conditions
Conclusion
Normal blood pressure generally remains below 120/80 mm Hg for adults, while children’s blood pressure varies according to age, sex, and height percentiles. Regular monitoring is important, as high blood pressure often has no symptoms but increases the risk of heart disease, stroke, and kidney problems. If you are unsure about your blood pressure reading, consult a healthcare professional for proper evaluation and guidance.