Normal Levels

The average blood pressure level for systolic measurement is somewhere between 90 and 119 mmHg, for a diastolic measurement it ranges between 60-79 mmHg. There is a general trend for the evolution of blood pressure values; children usually have lower blood pressure than adults. The older you get the higher your blood pressure is due to various factors.

Prehypertension

Prehypertension indicates blood pressure readings between 120/80 and 139/89 on several measurements and it means that you are likely to develop hypertension. The first step to take is to evaluate your lifestyle and make healthier living choices. If you are overweight it is necessary to get slimmer, you should exercise more and avoid substances that are known to have an adverse effect on the cardiovascular system, substances such as nicotine, alcohol, caffeine, sugar, sodium and saturated fats.

Hypertension

Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is of two types. Stage one hypertension corresponds to a measurement between 140/90 and 159/99. Besides lifestyle amendments, one suffering from stage one hypertension can also use different prescription medication to correct the problem. Hypertension increases the risk of heart attack and heart failure, stroke, kidney and eye problems.

Stage two hypertension is identified by a blood pressure level over 160/100. Of course the higher the blood pressure, the greater the health risk, so in case of stage two hypertension intensive drug treatment is required. Without immediate intervention a heart attack or a stroke will eventually occur.

Hypotension

Unusually low blood pressure is also known as hypotension. It depends on the individual what is the actual value for a small pressure measurement. One individual with a diastolic of 60 may not present any symptoms, while another one with 70 may suffer from various conditions due to low blood pressure level. In severe cases hypotension prevents the various body organs from receiving nutrients and oxygen required for normal functioning, leading to permanent organ damage, coma or death.

There are many causes for low blood pressure. Pregnancy, inadequate nutrition, blood loss, certain drugs, dehydration can all determine hypotension. Drinking plenty of water and a healthy diet, providing not just the required number of calories, but also the adequate vitamins and minerals reduces the risk of developing hypotension.