Blood pressure is written as two numbers — systolic over diastolic. What counts as normal is broadly similar across adults, though it tends to drift up with age. Here is a simple guide and what the numbers mean.
| Measure | Range |
|---|---|
| Normal | below 120 / 80 mmHg |
| Elevated | 120–129 / below 80 |
| Stage 1 high | 130–139 / 80–89 |
| Stage 2 high | 140+ / 90+ |
| Crisis (urgent) | 180+ / 120+ |
For most adults, below 120/80 mmHg is considered normal. Consistently 130/80 or above is generally regarded as high and worth reviewing with a doctor.
It often does, as arteries stiffen, but that does not make high readings harmless. The healthy target stays broadly the same, and treatment still helps.
A reading of 180/120 mmHg or higher — especially with chest pain, breathlessness, severe headache or vision changes — needs urgent medical care.
Reviewed by Dr. Sanjay Anbu, MBBS. MedDroid is an AI medical assistant and can make mistakes. It provides general health information, not a diagnosis or medical advice — always consult a qualified clinician. In an emergency, contact your local emergency number immediately.