Blood Pressure Chart: Understanding Your Numbers
Use this reference chart to understand your blood pressure readings. Based on American Heart Association guidelines, it covers every category from normal to hypertensive crisis.
Blood Pressure Categories
Source: American Heart Association (AHA) guidelines. All values in mmHg.
| Category | Systolic (top) | Diastolic (bottom) | What it means | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Normal | Less than 120 | and | Less than 80 | Healthy range. Maintain with regular exercise and a heart-healthy diet. |
| Elevated | 120 to 129 | and | Less than 80 | Higher than normal. Lifestyle changes can bring it back to the normal range. |
| High BP Stage 1 | 130 to 139 | or | 80 to 89 | Hypertension Stage 1. Consult your doctor about treatment options. |
| High BP Stage 2 | 140 or higher | or | 90 or higher | Hypertension Stage 2. Likely requires medication plus lifestyle changes. |
| Hypertensive Crisis | Higher than 180 | and/or | Higher than 120 | Emergency. Seek medical attention immediately if readings reach this level. |
Healthy range. Maintain with regular exercise and a heart-healthy diet.
Higher than normal. Lifestyle changes can bring it back to the normal range.
Hypertension Stage 1. Consult your doctor about treatment options.
Hypertension Stage 2. Likely requires medication plus lifestyle changes.
Emergency. Seek medical attention immediately if readings reach this level.
What Do the Two Numbers Mean?
Systolic Pressure (Top Number)
The top number measures the pressure in your arteries when your heart beats and pumps blood. It represents the peak force on your arterial walls with each heartbeat. Normal systolic pressure is below 120 mmHg.
Diastolic Pressure (Bottom Number)
The bottom number measures the pressure in your arteries when your heart rests between beats. It reflects the baseline pressure your arteries experience continuously. Normal diastolic pressure is below 80 mmHg.
Average Blood Pressure by Age and Gender
While the AHA categories above apply to all adults, average blood pressure naturally changes with age. The table below shows typical readings by age group and gender, based on population studies. These are averages, not targets. Your goal should still be below 120/80 mmHg regardless of age.
| Age Group | Men (avg) | Women (avg) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 18-24 | 117/72 mmHg | 110/68 mmHg | Lowest adult averages; diastolic matters most at this age |
| 25-29 | 119/74 mmHg | 112/70 mmHg | Gradual rise begins; lifestyle habits set long-term trajectory |
| 30-39 | 122/76 mmHg | 116/72 mmHg | Pregnancy can temporarily raise BP in women |
| 40-49 | 126/80 mmHg | 122/76 mmHg | Arterial stiffness begins; systolic starts climbing |
| 50-59 | 131/82 mmHg | 128/80 mmHg | Menopause raises BP risk in women; both numbers matter equally |
| 60-69 | 135/78 mmHg | 134/78 mmHg | Gender gap narrows; diastolic may start dropping |
| 70+ | 138/74 mmHg | 139/74 mmHg | Systolic is primary risk indicator; pulse pressure widens |
Sources: NHANES data, European Heart Journal population studies. Values are approximate population averages for healthy adults not on blood pressure medication.
How to Use This Blood Pressure Chart
To use this chart, you need a blood pressure reading from a validated monitor. Place the cuff on your upper arm, sit quietly for five minutes, and take a measurement. Your monitor will display two numbers: systolic (top) and diastolic (bottom). Match your numbers to the categories in the chart above.
A single reading is not enough for a diagnosis. Blood pressure fluctuates throughout the day by 10-20 mmHg, and factors like caffeine, exercise, anxiety, and dehydration can temporarily push numbers higher. Track readings over at least a week to see your true pattern.
Why the bottom number matters in younger adults
For people under 50, a high diastolic blood pressure (the bottom number) may be more predictive of future heart problems than the systolic number. This is called isolated diastolic hypertension, and it is often linked to obesity, sleep apnea, and smoking. Read more about high diastolic blood pressure.
Blood pressure and headaches
A common misconception is that high blood pressure causes headaches. In reality, headaches from blood pressure only occur at crisis levels (above 180/120 mmHg). If your chart reading is in stage 1 or 2, your headache likely has another cause. See our full guide to blood pressure and headaches.
Lifestyle changes that shift your chart position
Moving from Stage 1 back to Normal is achievable for many people without medication. The most effective interventions, ranked by typical systolic BP reduction: the DASH diet (8-14 mmHg), regular exercise (5-8 mmHg), dietary changes (5-6 mmHg for sodium reduction), and reducing alcohol intake (3-5 mmHg). Combined, these can lower systolic blood pressure by 15-25 mmHg.
Track Your Blood Pressure with Cardilog
Log readings, spot trends, and share detailed reports with your doctor. Free to download on iOS and Android.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a normal blood pressure reading?
A normal blood pressure reading is less than 120/80 mmHg. The top number (systolic) should be below 120 and the bottom number (diastolic) should be below 80. Readings consistently at or above 130/80 mmHg indicate high blood pressure.
What do the two numbers in a blood pressure reading mean?
The top number (systolic pressure) measures the force your blood exerts on artery walls when your heart beats. The bottom number (diastolic pressure) measures that force when your heart rests between beats. Both numbers together give a complete picture of your cardiovascular health.
How often should I check my blood pressure at home?
The American Heart Association recommends checking twice daily: once in the morning before taking medications and once in the evening. Take two readings at least one minute apart and record both. Tracking consistently over time reveals patterns that single readings miss.
What should I do if my blood pressure reading is high?
If you get a high reading, wait five minutes and measure again. Avoid caffeine, exercise, and smoking for 30 minutes before measuring. If readings are consistently above 130/80 mmHg, speak with your doctor. If readings exceed 180/120 mmHg, seek emergency care, especially if you have symptoms like chest pain or shortness of breath.
What factors affect blood pressure readings?
Many factors can temporarily raise readings: stress, caffeine, exercise, full bladder, talking while measuring, or an ill-fitting cuff. For accurate results, sit quietly for five minutes before measuring, keep your arm at heart level, and measure at the same time each day.
Can blood pressure be too low?
Yes. Low blood pressure (hypotension) is generally defined as below 90/60 mmHg. Symptoms include dizziness, fainting, and fatigue. If you regularly read below this threshold or experience these symptoms, speak with your doctor.
Medical Disclaimer: This chart is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Blood pressure categories are based on American Heart Association guidelines. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider about your personal health situation.