What are the different blood pressure ranges (normal and high blood pressure)?
A blood pressure cuff is used to measure the pressure. Elevation of blood pressure (high blood pressure) is called "hypertension".
Depending on your blood pressure reading, you will fall into one of the blood pressure categories, which include:
While many focus on the dangers of high blood pressure (hypertension), low blood pressure (hypotension) can also pose a threat. In cases of hypotension, a diastolic blood pressure reading of 60 mm Hg or below is considered low blood pressure. This is true even if your systolic blood pressure reading is 120 mm Hg, which is considered normal.
Your blood pressure measurement will determine which blood pressure category you belong to. The higher your blood pressure reading, the higher your risk factor for certain conditions, such as cardiovascular disease and kidney disease. High blood pressure can damage your blood vessels, kidneys, and brain if left untreated.
Blood pressure can be categorized into low, normal, high, hypertension stage I/II (heart disease, and stroke risk), and hypertension crisis.
Blood pressure can be categorized into five different types, namely:
Table 1. Blood pressure readings chart
Category |
Systolic (mm Hg) |
Diastolic (mm Hg) |
Management |
Dangerously low |
≤50 |
≤33 |
A critical condition that requires emergency medical attention with IV fluids |
Very low |
≤60 |
≤40 |
Lifestyle modifications with medications |
Low |
Less than 90 |
Less than 60 |
Lifestyle modifications and regular checkups |
Normal |
Less than 120 |
Less than 80 |
Active lifestyle |
Elevated |
120-129 |
80 or more |
Doctors may recommend lifestyle changes at this stage |
Hypertension stage I |
130-139 |
80-89 |
Doctors may prescribe blood pressure medications and some lifestyle changes to reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke. |
Hypertension stage II |
140-159 |
90-99 |
Doctors may prescribe a combination of medications and lifestyle changes; they may treat complications that may have increased due to high blood pressure. |
Hypertensive crisis |
180 or higher |
120 or higher |
A critical condition that requires emergency medical attention |
Blood pressure is measured in mm Hg (millimeters of mercury)
Contact your healthcare provider or Call 911 immediately if the following symptoms are experienced: