We all might have seen two numbers for our blood pressure, but do you know what the normal range of your blood pressure readings should be? More here.
Quick Summary
- The blood pressure reading is an easy indicator of your cardiovascular health; therefore, knowing the ranges of blood pressure readings will help to assess heart health better.
- 120/80 is generally considered a normal blood pressure range, but studies show that it could vary depending on individual physiology, comorbidity, genetics, etc.
- Finding your normal blood pressure with the help of a clinician and following up on your routine readings using an at-home blood pressure is a good strategy.
Keeping tabs on your blood pressure is essential for maintaining good health.
However, understanding blood pressure readings and their meaning can be confusing, and owning an at-home blood pressure monitor is a valuable investment.
This is where knowing the different blood pressure categories and their ranges can be helpful.
By understanding your blood pressure reading, you can make necessary lifestyle changes or seek medical attention if needed.
In this article, we’ll delve into the different categories of blood pressure and their ranges.
We’ll also discuss why you should own an at-home blood pressure monitor, and suggestions for some of the most selling blood pressure monitors, as it can help you keep track of your blood pressure and detect any abnormalities early on.
Let us dive deep!
What Is The Normal Range Of Blood Pressure?
The normal range of blood pressure is typically around 120/80 mmHg, with slight variations depending on individual factors such as age and health conditions.
Blood pressure readings above or below this range can indicate potential health issues such as hypertension (high blood pressure) or hypotension (low blood pressure).
While 120/80 mmHg is often cited as the normal blood pressure range for adults, the ideal blood pressure can vary depending on a number of factors, including age, sex, and overall health status.
Additionally, some individuals may have a higher or lower normal blood pressure due to factors such as genetics or pre-existing medical conditions.
Regular blood pressure checks are recommended to help monitor and maintain a healthy range, and lifestyle changes such as a healthy diet, regular exercise, and stress management can also help manage blood pressure levels.
If you are concerned about your blood pressure readings, procure a blood pressure monitor and use it at home. But before getting learn how to use one and figure where you can buy a genuine one.
What Are The Different Categories Of Blood Pressure And Their Ranges?
Blood pressure is typically categorized into five different groups:
Hypotension
When the blood pressure reading is less than 90/60, it is generally classified as hypotension.
Consistent hypotension readings indicate an impending cardiovascular problem, or the patient might be at risk of internal bleeding in case of trauma.
Normal
A normal blood pressure reading is typically considered to be below 120/80 mmHg.
This is considered to be a healthy range, and individuals with a normal blood pressure are generally considered to be at low risk for cardiovascular disease.
Elevated
Elevated blood pressure is defined as a systolic blood pressure reading (the top number) between 120-139 mmHg and a diastolic blood pressure reading (the bottom number) below 80 mmHg.
Individuals with elevated blood pressure are at higher risk for developing hypertension in the future and may be advised to make lifestyle changes to reduce their risk.
Hypertension Stage 1
Hypertension Stage 1 is defined as a systolic blood pressure reading between 130-139 mmHg or a diastolic blood pressure reading between 80-89 mmHg.
At this stage, individuals are considered to have high blood pressure and may be advised to make lifestyle changes or take medications to lower their blood pressure.
Hypertension Stage 2
Hypertension Stage 2 is defined as a systolic blood pressure reading of 140 mmHg or higher or a diastolic blood pressure reading of 90 mmHg or higher.
At this stage, individuals are at high risk for developing cardiovascular disease and may require more aggressive treatment, including medications, to lower their blood pressure.
If you want to learn more about the readings and what they could mean, we have a detailed guide to blood pressure readings and their implications.
Hypertensive Crisis
Hypertensive crisis is a medical emergency and is diagnosed when the systolic blood pressure is greater than or equal to 180 mm Hg, or the diastolic blood pressure is greater than or equal to 120 mm Hg.
If you have a blood pressure reading that falls into this range, it is important to seek medical attention immediately.
Why Should You Own A At-Home Blood Pressure Monitor?
Having an at-home blood pressure monitor can be a helpful tool in monitoring and managing your blood pressure.
By regularly tracking your blood pressure at home, you can gain a better understanding of your overall health and potential risk for cardiovascular disease.
In terms of the normal blood pressure range, the American Heart Association defines normal blood pressure as less than 120/80 mmHg.
Having an at-home blood pressure monitor can help you keep track of your blood pressure over time and in-live.
It can also help you identify any changes or trends that may warrant a visit to your healthcare provider.
In addition, monitoring your blood pressure at home can help you become more engaged in your health and make lifestyle changes that can help lower your blood pressure, such as maintaining a healthy weight, eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, and managing stress.
Recommended At-Home Blood Pressure Monitors
There are many blood pressure monitors on the market, but the Oxiline Pressure X Pro, CheckMe BP2, and QardioArm stand out for their accuracy and convenient features.
Oxiline Pressure X Pro
The Oxiline Pressure X Pro is a high-tech device that uses Bluetooth to connect to a smartphone app for easy tracking and analysis. It can store up to 21 readings and come with multiuser support via the app.
CheckMe BP2
The CheckMe BP2 is a compact and portable device that can be carried in a pocket or purse. It is easy to use, with one-touch operation and a large, easy-to-read display. The device also stores up to 50 readings, allowing users to track their blood pressure over the app.
Qardioarm
The QardioArm is a sleek, stylish device that connects to a smartphone app for easy tracking and analysis. The QardioArm is also FDA-approved and has received accolades from the American Heart Association.
Overall, these three at-home blood pressure monitors offer accurate readings, convenient features, and stylish designs.
Conclusion
To sum things up, monitoring your blood pressure regularly is essential for maintaining good health, and owning an at-home blood pressure monitor is a valuable investment.
Understanding the different categories of blood pressure and their ranges can help you take steps to manage your blood pressure and reduce your risk of health complications.
Since high blood pressure can increase your risk of heart disease, stroke, and other health problems, it is always recommended to have a at-home blood pressure monitor.
Also, owning one at home can help you become more engaged in your health, make lifestyle changes, and detect any abnormalities early on.
References
Atilla, K., & Vasan, R. S. (2006). Prehypertension and risk of cardiovascular disease. Expert Review of Cardiovascular Therapy, 4(1), 111–117. https://doi.org/10.1586/14779072.4.1.111
Hopkins Tanne, J. (2003). US guidelines say blood pressure of 120/80 mm Hg is not “normal.” BMJ : British Medical Journal, 326(7399), 1104. https://doi.org/10.1136/BMJ.326.7399.1104-A
Understanding Blood Pressure Readings | American Heart Association. (n.d.). Retrieved February 20, 2023, from https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/high-blood-pressure/understanding-blood-pressure-readings
High Blood Pressure Symptoms and Causes | cdc.gov. (n.d.). Retrieved February 20, 2023, from https://www.cdc.gov/bloodpressure/about.htm
Robin Backlund is a dedicated journalist and a medical student who has written several articles and essays exposing the falseness and hollowness of online resources in the medical science niche.