Blood pressure doesn’t have a single “normal” number for each age. For most adults, the same general target ranges apply regardless of age. Blood pressure is written as systolic/diastolic (top/bottom), in mmHg.
Adults
| Category | Blood pressure |
|---|---|
| Normal | <120 / <80 |
| Elevated | 120–129 / <80 |
| High — Stage 1 | 130–139 or 80–89 |
| High — Stage 2 | ≥140 or ≥90 |
| Severe hypertension | ≥180 and/or ≥120 — needs prompt medical attention |
A single high reading doesn’t necessarily mean someone has hypertension; readings should generally be repeated under proper conditions.
Children and teenagers
Children are different: “normal” blood pressure depends on age, sex, and height, rather than having one number for everyone. For children under 13, pediatric blood-pressure charts are typically used. From age 13 onward, adult-style thresholds are generally used.
Older adults
There isn’t a rule that blood pressure should automatically become much higher with age. Treatment goals are individualized based on overall health, medications, kidney/heart conditions, and risk of dizziness or falls.
If you tell me the person’s age and their blood-pressure reading (for example, 150/90), I can explain whether that reading is concerning.
