What is blood pressure?
Before we dive into the chart, it’s important to know what blood pressure is. Basically, it’s the force of blood pushing against the walls of your arteries as your heart pumps. Blood pressure is measured in two numbers:
- Systolic pressure (the higher number): This measures the pressure when your heart beats.
- Diastolic pressure (the lower number): This measures the pressure when your heart is resting between beats.
Both numbers are important, and keeping them within healthy ranges is key to maintaining good health.
Blood pressure chart by age and weight
Here’s a helpful chart to give you an idea of normal blood pressure ranges based on age and weight. Keep in mind, these are general guidelines, and it’s always best to consult your doctor for personalized advice.
| Age | Weight (kg) | Normal blood pressure (mmHg) |
|---|---|---|
| 20-30 | 50-70 | 110/70 – 120/80 |
| 30-40 | 60-80 | 115/75 – 125/85 |
| 40-50 | 70-90 | 120/80 – 130/85 |
| 50-60 | 70-90 | 125/80 – 135/85 |
| 60-70 | 70-90 | 130/85 – 140/90 |
| 70+ | 70-90 | 135/85 – 145/90 |
How to know if your blood pressure is normal?
If your blood pressure readings seem off, don’t panic right away. Blood pressure can fluctuate throughout the day due to many factors: stress, food, exercise… The best approach is to measure it several times and keep a record. If your numbers consistently stay out of the normal range, then it’s important to check in with your doctor.
What to do if you have high or low blood pressure?
- High blood pressure: If your numbers are higher than recommended (hypertension), it’s time to adjust your diet, reduce salt intake, and try to avoid stress. Regular exercise also helps a lot.
- Low blood pressure: If your numbers are lower (hypotension), you might feel dizzy or fatigued. In these cases, staying hydrated, eating a balanced diet, and avoiding standing for too long can help improve the situation.