Normal Blood Pressure
Blood pressure in the body has two components. A top number or “systolic” blood pressure and a bottom number called the “diastolic” pressure. Guidelines for the treatment of high blood pressure recommend a goal of 120/80 or less. This goal can be a source of confusion for some patients. An easy way to understand this is by separating the 120/80 into two separate goals. Both the top and the bottom numbers need to be under the goal to be considered normal. So, even if one number is excellent, if the other is elevated, the blood pressure is still considered high.
Advertisement
Examples of pressure readings to help you understand what is considered normal
120/79
Normal
Both numbers are under the goal.
(mouse over the the boxes to see what is considered high or normal)
145/60
High
145 is over the goal of 120, even though 60 seems much lower.
120/90
High
120 is normal, but 90 is still over the goal of 80.
A normal blood pressure range varies with age but is generally considered 100-120 systolic pressure over 60-80 diastolic pressure
The “classic” blood pressure cuff monitor used by doctors and nurses in the office and hospital can look intimidating. Luckily today, electronic blood pressure monitors are widely available and are relatively inexpensive. Also, most commercial insurance providers in the United States offer a blood pressure monitor as a covered benefit to their clients. If this is the case, all you need is a prescription from your doctor to obtain a home monitor. Electronic blood pressure monitors are easy to use and accurate. Checking your blood pressure at home is a good idea. Please follow the instructions provided with each device, making sure to position the cuff in the correct location on the arm or wrist.
It is also important you use a validated blood pressure monitor. Click here for a list of validated devices recommended by the most recent guidelines.
About the Author
Share this with a patient or friend
Advertisement