Normal blood pressure varies slightly by age, but in general, it’s measured in millimeters of mercury (mmHg) and recorded as systolic/diastolic (e.g., 120/80 mmHg). Here’s a clear breakdown by age group:
1. Children (1–12 years)
Blood pressure in kids depends on age, sex, and height percentile, but approximate normal ranges are:
- 1–3 years: 90–105 / 55–70 mmHg
- 4–6 years: 95–110 / 60–75 mmHg
- 7–12 years: 100–120 / 60–75 mmHg
2. Teenagers (13–17 years)
- Systolic: 110–135 mmHg
- Diastolic: 65–85 mmHg
3. Adults (18–59 years)
- Normal: 90–120 / 60–80 mmHg
- Elevated: 120–129 / <80 mmHg
- High Blood Pressure (Hypertension Stage 1): 130–139 / 80–89 mmHg
- Hypertension Stage 2: ≥140 / ≥90 mmHg
4. Older Adults (60+ years)
- Normal: up to ~150 / 90 mmHg is often considered acceptable, but ideal is still below 140/90 mmHg for most healthy adults.
- Older adults may tolerate slightly higher systolic pressure to avoid fainting from over-lowering blood pressure.
💡 Key Notes:
- Blood pressure fluctuates during the day, after exercise, and with stress.
- Always measure sitting, after resting 5 minutes, with the cuff at heart level.
- Persistent readings above normal should be evaluated by a doctor to prevent heart, kidney, and vascular complications.
If you want, I can make a simple age-based chart with ideal, elevated, and high BP ranges that’s easy to reference at a glance.
Do you want me to make that chart?