Blood Pressure Chart: What is a Low, Good, Normal and High Blood Pressure Reading? (Chart)
Blood Pressure Chart
Welcome! One this page, I have added the essentials about Blood Pressure, how to understand your reading. Plus, a helpful Blood Pressure Chart: Low, Good, Normal, and High.
Blood Pressure Chart: Understanding My Reading
What Is Blood Pressure?
It’s the force of my blood pushing against artery walls. We measure it in mm Hg (millimeters of mercury). Each reading has two numbers:
- Top (Systolic): Pressure when my heart beats.
- Bottom (Diastolic): Pressure between beats.
If my reading is too high, it’s called hypertension. That can raise my risk of heart trouble and strokes.
Blood Pressure Chart
Categories of Blood Pressure
The American College of Cardiology and the American Heart Association list four main categories. If my systolic and diastolic fall in different levels, the higher level applies. For example, if I’m at 125/85 mm Hg, that’s Stage 1 Hypertension.
| Systolic mm Hg | And/Or | Diastolic mm Hg | Category | Action |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Below 120 | And | Below 80 | Normal | Keep a healthy lifestyle. |
| 120–129 | And | Below 80 | Elevated | Keep a healthy lifestyle. |
| 130–139 | Or | 80–89 | Stage 1 Hypertension | Stay healthy. Talk to a doctor if needed. |
| 140 or higher | Or | 90 or higher | Stage 2 Hypertension | Stay healthy. Discuss meds with a doctor. |
| Over 180 | And/Or | Over 120 | Hypertensive Crisis | Get emergency care now. |
Note: Kids and teens may have different blood pressure ranges. I talk to a doctor if I’m worried about my child’s BP.
How I Measure Blood Pressure Properly
- Rest 5 minutes before measuring.
- Sit with feet on the floor and back supported.
- Keep my arm at heart level.
- Avoid caffeine, alcohol, or smoking for 30 minutes before.
- Take 2+ readings at different times and average them.
If my BP stays high, I see a healthcare pro.
FAQ About Blood Pressure
1. What is low, normal, and high blood pressure?
- Low (hypotension): Below 90/60 mm Hg.
- Normal: Below 120/80 mm Hg.
- Elevated: 120–129/<80 mm Hg.
- Stage 1: 130–139/80–89 mm Hg.
- Stage 2: 140/90 mm Hg or higher.
- Crisis: Over 180/120 mm Hg (seek help now).
2. How does it change with age?
It usually rises as I get older. If I’m 65+, my targets might be different. I check with my doctor for a personal goal.
3. Is BP different for men and women?
Men often have higher BP before 60. After menopause, women’s risk climbs.
4. How can I lower BP naturally?
- Eat less salt.
- Get more potassium (bananas, spinach).
- Exercise (walk, swim, bike).
- Maintain a healthy weight.
- Reduce stress (meditate, do yoga).
- Limit alcohol and don’t smoke.
5. Which foods help the most?
- Potassium: Bananas, sweet potatoes.
- Magnesium: Nuts, seeds, whole grains.
- Healthy fats: Avocados, olive oil, salmon.
- Low sodium: Fresh produce and lean meats.
6. Does caffeine or alcohol affect BP?
Yes. Caffeine can spike it briefly. Heavy alcohol use can cause lasting hypertension.
7. How often should I check my BP?
- If I’m normal, at least once a year.
- If it’s high, more often. I follow my doctor’s advice.
8. Does stress raise BP?
Yes. Chronic stress can keep it elevated. Deep breathing or exercise can help.
9. Can dehydration affect BP?
Yes. Lack of fluids can lower BP and make me dizzy. I drink water throughout the day.
10. Which meds affect BP?
Some decongestants, birth control pills, and pain relievers can raise it. I always talk to my doctor about concerns.
