Maintaining normal blood pressure is crucial for the health of the heart and blood vessels. Friends of Tirta can learn about normal blood pressure values by age and gender, as well as how to measure and maintain healthy blood pressure.
What Is Blood Pressure?
Blood pressure is the force of blood against artery walls when the heart pumps. Blood pressure is measured in millimeters of mercury (mmHg) and consists of two numbers:
- Systolic: The pressure when the heart contracts.
- Diastolic: The pressure when the heart rests between beats.
Normal blood pressure is usually around 120/80 mmHg, but it can vary with age, gender, and health conditions.
Normal Blood Pressure Based on Age
Normal blood pressure is a crucial indicator of cardiovascular health. Blood pressure values can vary based on age due to physiological changes that occur over a lifetime.
This text discusses normal blood pressure ranges by age, accompanied by a helpful table.
document:
Age Group | Normal Blood Pressure |
---|---|
Newborns to 1 year | 60/20 mmHg – 90/60 mmHg |
Infants aged 1 to 3 years | 87/53 mmHg – 105/66 mmHg |
Preschool children (3–5 years) | 95/56 mmHg – 110/70 mmHg |
School-aged children (6–12 years) | 97/57 mmHg – 112/71 mmHg |
Teenagers (13–18 years) | 112/66 mmHg – 128/80 mmHg |
Adults | 90/60 mmHg – 120/80 mmHg |
Seniors (>65 years) | 90/60 mmHg – 120/80 mmHg |
1. Normal Blood Pressure in Infants
Infants tend to have lower blood pressure compared to other age groups. This is due to their still elastic blood vessels and differing metabolic needs.
- Newborns to 1 year: 60/20 mmHg – 90/60 mmHg
- Infants aged 1 to 3 years: 87/53 mmHg – 105/66 mmHg
2. Normal Blood Pressure in Children
Blood pressure in children increases with body growth and increased physical activity.
- Preschool children (3–5 years): 95/56 mmHg – 110/70 mmHg
- School-aged children (6–12 years): 97/57 mmHg – 112/71 mmHg
3. Normal Blood Pressure in Teenagers
- In teenagers, blood pressure starts to align more closely with adult standards. Factors such as hormones, height, and physical activity influence blood pressure variations.
- Ages 13–18: 112/66 mmHg – 128/80 mmHg
4. Normal Blood Pressure in Adults
Adults generally have relatively stable blood pressure, though it can temporarily change due to physical activity or stress. Normal adult blood pressure is about 90/60 mmHg – 120/80 mmHg.
5. Normal Blood Pressure in Seniors
Generally, normal blood pressure in seniors is the same as in adults: 90/60 mmHg – 120/80 mmHg. However, blood pressure numbers can fluctuate due to physiological factors as organs age.
Normal Blood Pressure by Gender (Women & Men)
Gender also affects blood pressure:
– Normal Blood Pressure for Women
- Age 18–39 years: 110/68 mmHg.
- Age 40–59 years: 122/74 mmHg.
- Age >60 years: 139/68 mmHg.
– Normal Blood Pressure for Men
- Age 18–39 years: 119/70 mmHg.
- Age 40–59 years: 124/77 mmHg.
- Age >60 years: 133/69 mmHg.
Women usually have lower blood pressure than men until menopause, after which hormonal changes can cause their blood pressure to rise closer to men’s levels.
How to Measure Blood Pressure
Measuring blood pressure is an essential step in monitoring heart and vascular health.
Measurements can be done manually or using a digital device. Here is a complete explanation of the correct methods to measure blood pressure:
– Measurement Methods
- Manual (Auscultation Method) Using a sphygmomanometer and stethoscope, this method detects Korotkoff sounds that appear at systolic pressure and disappear at diastolic pressure. This procedure requires the expertise of medical personnel to ensure accurate results.
- Digital (Oscillometric Method) Automatic digital devices measure blood pressure based on oscillations in the arterial wall. This method is easier to use and minimizes human error, making it suitable for self-measurement at home.
– Measurement Steps
1. Patient Preparation
- Sit with your back supported, feet uncrossed, and arm level with the heart.
- Avoid caffeine, smoking, or heavy activity for at least 30 minutes before measuring.
- Remain quiet for 3–5 minutes before starting the measurement.
2. Cuff Placement
- Place the cuff on the upper arm, about 2–3 cm above the elbow fold.
- Ensure the cuff is neither too loose nor too tight.
3. Measurement Process
- For the manual method, pump the cuff to about 30 mmHg above the estimated systolic pressure. Listen for Korotkoff sounds using a stethoscope.
- For digital devices, follow the device instructions until the result appears on the screen.
4. Repetition
- Perform measurements two to three times with a 1–2 minute interval to obtain a more accurate average result.
Factors Affecting Accuracy
- Posture and alignment during measurement.
- Select cuff size that corresponds to the arm’s circumference.
- Environmental conditions (avoid noise).
- Technical errors such as incorrect cuff placement.
Health Disorders Related to Blood Pressure
Abnormal blood pressure can cause various serious health disorders. Here are two main conditions related to blood pressure:
1. Hypertension (High Blood Pressure)
Hypertension occurs when blood pressure exceeds 140/90 mmHg. It is often called a silent killer because it rarely shows early symptoms but can lead to serious complications such as:
- Coronary heart disease.
- Stroke.
- Kidney failure.
- Vascular aneurysm.
Symptoms of hypertension include headaches, dizziness, nosebleeds, or chest pain in advanced stages. Treatment includes lifestyle changes (low-salt diet, regular exercise) and antihypertensive medications as prescribed by a doctor.
2. Hypotension (Low Blood Pressure)
Hypotension is defined as blood pressure below 90/60 mmHg. Causes include dehydration, bleeding, hormonal disorders, or side effects of certain medications.
Types of hypotension:
- Orthostatic Hypotension: Occurs when standing up suddenly from a sitting or lying position.
- Postprandial Hypotension: Occurs after eating due to blood flow focusing on the digestive tract.
Symptoms of hypotension include dizziness, weakness, blurred vision, and fainting. Treatment depends on the cause, such as improving hydration or stopping certain medications.
Is Blood Pressure 110/70 Normal?
A blood pressure of 110/70 mmHg is considered normal for most healthy individuals, especially adults and teenagers. Here is a more detailed explanation:
– Blood Pressure Interpretation: 110/70 is considered normal.
The systolic number (110 mmHg) indicates the pressure when the heart pumps blood throughout the body.
The diastolic number (70 mmHg) indicates the pressure when the heart rests between beats.
This range is considered optimal as it is within the normal range according to international guidelines (<120/80 mmHg). These values reflect good heart and blood vessel function without the risk of hypertension or hypotension.
– Factors Influencing Blood Pressure
Blood pressure can vary depending on age, gender, physical activity, and health condition:
For teenagers and adults: This blood pressure is ideal.
For the elderly: This pressure may be considered low if accompanied by symptoms like dizziness or weakness.
If you have a blood pressure of 110/70 and experience dizziness or extreme fatigue, consult a doctor to check for mild hypotension or other medical issues.
How to Maintain Normal Blood Pressure
Maintaining normal blood pressure is crucial to prevent various cardiovascular diseases such as hypertension and stroke. Here are steps that can be taken to keep blood pressure within normal limits:
1. Adopt a Healthy Diet
- Consume fiber-rich foods such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes.
- Avoid high-salt, saturated fat, and sugar foods. Limit salt intake to 1,500 mg per day (less than one teaspoon).
- Include high-potassium foods like bananas, spinach, and potatoes because potassium helps reduce the effect of sodium on blood pressure.
- Include foods rich in magnesium and antioxidants that support vascular health, such as salmon and avocados.
2. Exercise Regularly
Physical activity can reduce blood pressure by 5–8 mmHg. Do aerobic exercises such as walking, jogging, swimming, or cycling for 30 minutes a day or at least 150 minutes a week.
3. Maintain Ideal Body Weight
Being overweight increases the risk of hypertension. Losing 1 kg can reduce blood pressure by up to 1 mmHg. Additionally, it is important to keep the waist circumference below 90 cm for men and 80 cm for women.
4. Manage Stress
Stress triggers the release of adrenaline, which can increase blood pressure. Relaxation techniques such as meditation, yoga, or deep breathing can help manage stress.
5. Ensure Good Sleep Patterns
Sleeping less than 6 hours per night can increase the risk of hypertension. Aim for 7–9 hours of sleep each night with good sleep quality.
6. Avoid Smoking and Alcohol
Nicotine in cigarettes causes vasoconstriction, thus increasing blood pressure. High alcohol consumption can also raise blood pressure.
7. Limit Caffeine
Caffeine in coffee or tea can cause a temporary spike in blood pressure. If you are sensitive to caffeine, limit its consumption.
Places to Check Blood Pressure
Regular blood pressure checks are very important for monitoring your cardiovascular health.
Tirta Medical Centre (TMC) is the best choice for blood pressure examinations. In addition to having a trusted laboratory and comprehensive Medical Check-Up services, TMC is located in over 30 branch locations across Indonesia, including major cities like Jakarta, Yogyakarta, Surabaya, Makassar, Medan, and others.
Advantages of TMC:
- State-of-the-art laboratory facilities delivering precise and reliable results.
- Services provided by professional medical staff.
- Comprehensive health examination packages including checks for blood pressure, cholesterol, blood sugar, and more.
- Strategically located with easy access in various cities.
For more comprehensive examination results and further consultation regarding your health, visit Tirta Medical Centre (TMC). TMC is the top medical check-up clinic in Indonesia, perfect for those focused on long-term health.
References:
- E-Journal of Sam Ratulangi University. Accessed in 2024. Analysis of Blood Pressure Measurement Comparison Between Lying and Sitting Positions in the Elderly: https://ejournal.unsrat.ac.id/v3/index.php/biomedik/article/download/37592/36582/88676
- Online Journal of the Faculty of Psychology and Health UIN Sunan Ampel. Accessed in 2024. Analysis of Increased Blood Pressure in Workers Exposed to Noise: https://jurnalfpk.uinsa.ac.id/index.php/jhsp/article/download/140/131/552
- Ministry of Health, Healthy Nation Initiative. Accessed in 2024. Hypertension Called a Silent Killer, Minister Budi Urges Regular Blood Pressure Checks: https://sehatnegeriku.kemkes.go.id/baca/rilis-media/20230607/0843182/hipertensi-disebut-sebagai-silent-killer-menkes-budi-imbau-rutin-cek-tekanan-darah
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- Kemenkes Ditjen Yankes. Accessed in 2024. Dangers of Low Blood Pressure: https://yankes.kemkes.go.id/view_artikel/641/bahaya-tekanan-darah-rendah
- Healthline. Accessed in 2024. What’s Considered a High Blood Pressure Reading?: https://www.healthline.com/health/what-considered-high-blood-pressure
- Health Hero. Accessed in 2024. What is normal blood pressure by age?: https://www.healthhero.ie/blog/what-is-normal-blood-pressure-by-age
- Healthline. Accessed in 2024. 18 Effective Ways to Lower Your Blood Pressure: https://www.healthline.com/health/high-blood-pressure-hypertension/lower-it-fast