High blood pressure or hypertension usually has no symptoms, but it's a major risk factor for heart attack, heart failure, stroke and kidney disease.
Key takeaways
Having your blood pressure checked regularly is the only way to know if you have hypertension.
While everyone has different targets, this blood pressure chart is a general guide to typical blood pressure levels.
What is considered high blood pressure and what’s in the normal range?
While typical blood pressure can vary from person to person, this chart provides a guide for adults.
Blood pressure levels for adults:
- Low: Less than 90/60 mmHg
- Optimal: Less than 120/80 mmHg
- Normal: 120 to 129/80 to 84 mmHg
- High to normal: 130 to 139/85 to 89 mmHg
- High: Over 140/90 mmHg.
There are different targets for different people. Speak to your medical team about the numbers that are right for you.
Heart health coaching
The COACH Program® provides over the phone guidance, information and support, at no extra cost for eligible Bupa members, following a heart attack, stroke, or other cardiovascular event.
Your risk of high blood pressure increases with age, but also if you:
- are obese
- don't exercise regularly
- smoke
- have a high salt intake
- drink too much alcohol
- have high cholesterol
- live with diabetes
- have a family history of high blood pressure.
You can manage your blood pressure by eating for heart health and exercising regularly, and in some cases your doctor may recommend medication.
At Bupa, trust is everything
Our health and wellbeing information is regularly reviewed and maintained by a team of healthcare experts, to ensure its relevancy and accuracy. Everyone's health journey is unique and health outcomes vary from person to person.
This content is not a replacement for personalised and specific medical, healthcare, or other professional advice. If you have concerns about your health, see your doctor or other health professional.
Heart Foundation. (2024). Blood pressure and your heart. Heart Foundation.
Better Health Channel. (2022). Blood Pressure. Victoria State Government, Department of Health.
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