Lately, more and more young people have hypertension (high blood pressure). This condition is triggered by many factors, one of which is poor diet, such as consuming lots of high-salt junk food. So, how does normal blood pressure by age? Find out the facts here, let's!
Blood pressure is fluctuating throughout the ages. The lowest blood pressure is when the baby, then gradually increases with age. Establishing blood pressure in children is quite complicated because it depends on his age. Some experts state that a child is considered prehypertension if he has blood pressure of more than 90 percent compared to his age, and is said to be hypertensive if blood pressure is more than 95 percent compared to his age.
Teenagers and Adults
Although blood pressure naturally increases with age, blood pressure is normal for all adolescents, adults, and older adults below 120/80 mmHg. The details are as follows:
- The first number (120 mmHg) is systolic blood pressure. This number shows the pressure in the blood vessels when the heart contracts and exerts maximum pressure.
- The second number (80 mmHg) is diastolic blood pressure. This figure shows the pressure in the blood vessels when the heart rests between contractions.
If one of the two numbers (systolic and diastolic) is too high, then, blood pressure is considered abnormal. You are considered prehypertension if systolic is consistently between 120-140 mmHg and diastolic is between 80-90 mmHg. If it is more than 140/90 mmHg, then you are at risk of developing hypertension.
Tips for Maintaining Normal Blood Pressure
If you have normal blood pressure, you are advised to routinely check blood pressure at least once every 5 years. If you belong to the prehypertension group, you are advised to routinely check blood pressure at least once a year. Whereas if you are included in the criteria for hypertension, immediately talk to the doctor to get the right treatment.
Here are some tips for maintaining blood pressure to stay normal:
- Exercise regularly. In addition to strengthening the heart muscle, exercise also makes blood vessels more elastic, reduces stress, and helps lose weight.
- Keep your body weight ideal. This is done to prevent obesity which can increase the risk of hypertension.
- Eat healthy food. For example by reducing consumption of fat, red meat, high-salt foods, and high sugar to avoid high blood pressure.
Avoid cigarettes and alcohol. Because, nicotine in cigarettes and alcohol can cause blood vessels to constrict, stiffen, thereby increasing blood pressure.
