Normal blood pressure can be defined as the pressure exerted by arteries on the movement of blood under normal conditions. It varies in an individual depending upon the phase of activity of the heart. For the sake of convenience the doctors normally measures the blood pressure in of the large arteries of an arm.



Two types of blood pressure: systolic and diastolic are measured. Systolic pressure is the pressure at a moment when the heart contracts in the process of pumping out blood and, represents the greatest pressure. Diastolic pressure is the pressure of a moment when the heart relaxes to permit the inflow of blood. Thus systolic pressure is always higher than the diastolic pressure. Normal blood pressure in adults is generally around 120 millimeters of mercury or mm Hg systolic and 80 millimeters of mercury or mm Hg diastolic and is usually written at 120/80 mm Hg. However, the systolic pressure could vary in individuals from 100 mm Hg to 140 mm Hg and still be considered normal, just as the diastolic could vary from 60 to 90 mm Hg. In deciding a person's blood pressure, various factors have to be taken into account.



For instance, a blood pressure of 140 or 150/90 mm Hg would be less significant in 60 year old compared to a 20 year old person.

It must be remembered that higher diastolic pressure is much more significant than a systolic pressure because in the diastolic stage the heart gets relief. If this pressure is higher it means the heart is not getting any relief which is definitely a danger signal.The normal range of blood pressure