Normal Blood Pressure by Age: What You Need to Know
Normal Blood Pressure by Age is crucial for maintaining health. This guide breaks down what constitutes normal blood pressure for different age groups and offers tips for managing it.
Normal Blood Pressure by Age is an important topic for everyone, yet many of us neglect to keep track of our blood pressure. Understanding what a normal reading should look like for your age can help you stay on top of your health.
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Why Monitoring Blood Pressure Matters
High blood pressure, or hypertension, affects about 30% of adults in the UK. Unfortunately, half of these individuals remain untreated, which can lead to serious health problems. High blood pressure increases the risk of heart disease, strokes, kidney failure, and dementia, and it can even impact your sex drive.
On the other hand, low blood pressure, or hypotension, doesn’t typically have as many long-term health risks, but it can cause symptoms like dizziness, fainting, and nausea. Low blood pressure can also result from medications or indicate another health issue. Dr. Pauline Swift, a nephrologist and chair of Blood Pressure UK, notes that low blood pressure often has no symptoms but can sometimes mean that not enough blood is flowing to your brain or other vital organs.
Understanding Blood Pressure Readings
Normal Blood Pressure by Age is measured with two numbers. For example, a reading of 120/80 mmHg is considered standard. The top number is systolic blood pressure, which measures the pressure in your arteries when your heart beats. The bottom number is diastolic blood pressure, which measures the pressure when your heart rests between beats. Both numbers are essential, as high or low readings in either can indicate health concerns.
The general target for blood pressure is around 120/80 mmHg for all adults. However, the actual target can vary depending on where the measurement is taken:
- In an NHS setting: 140/90 mmHg
- At home: 135/85 mmHg
- For those with cardiac or kidney diseases or diabetes: 130/80 mmHg
Blood Pressure by Age: What to Aim For
As you age, your blood pressure usually rises. This change often occurs without noticeable symptoms, making regular checks crucial, especially as you get older. Here’s what you should know about Normal Blood Pressure by Age:
- Aged 65-79: The European Society for Hypertension (ESH) suggests aiming for a blood pressure range of 130-140 mmHg, provided there are no underlying health conditions.
- Aged 80 and above: NICE recommends a target of less than 150/90 mmHg, with lower targets of 130/80 mmHg advised if there is significant chronic kidney disease.
Dr. Claire Merrifield, GP and medical director at Selph, explains, “Blood pressure must be high enough to ensure blood reaches your brain when standing up but not so high that it causes damage to your blood vessels.”
Average Blood Pressure for a 70-Year-Old
For those over 70, maintaining a blood pressure of 130/80 mmHg is generally advised. Here’s how blood pressure readings are categorized for this age group:
- Stage One Hypertension: 130/80 to 139/89 mmHg
- Stage Two Hypertension: 140/90 mmHg or higher
- Seek Immediate Medical Attention: 180/120 mmHg or higher
Understanding these categories can help you better manage your blood pressure and avoid potential health issues.
Regular Monitoring is Key
Normal Blood Pressure by Age is crucial for maintaining good health as you get older. Dr. Swift advises that everyone should get their blood pressure checked regularly. If your blood pressure is normal, the general recommendation is to have it checked every five years. However, once you turn 50, it’s important to have it checked annually because the risk of developing high blood pressure increases with age.
Tips for Managing Blood Pressure
Maintaining Normal Blood Pressure by Age involves a combination of healthy lifestyle choices and regular monitoring. Here are some tips to help manage your blood pressure:
- Exercise Regularly: Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week, such as brisk walking or cycling.
- Avoid Excessive Alcohol and Smoking: Both can negatively impact your blood pressure.
- Monitor Your Blood Pressure: Use a home blood pressure monitor or visit your local pharmacy or GP for regular checks.
By staying informed and proactive about your blood pressure, you can maintain your health and well-being as you age. Regular checks and a healthy lifestyle are key to ensuring your blood pressure remains within a normal range for your age.
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