Blood pressure readings

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On the basis of the measured blood pressure values, the doctor can assess whether a patient has abnormal blood pressure. From the values ​​alone, however, he cannot make a statement about the cause of changed blood pressure values. Further diagnostic steps are often necessary for this. Read here when the blood pressure values ​​are too high, too low or normal!

Blood pressure measurement: values ​​and what they mean

When the blood pressure changes, the systolic (upper) and diastolic (lower) values ​​are usually increased or decreased together. In some cases, however, only one of the two values ​​deviates from the norm. For example, an increased diastolic blood pressure can be the result of an underactive thyroid or a reduced lower value can be caused by a heart valve damage (aortic valve insufficiency).

Blood pressure values ​​measured in the doctor's office are often slightly higher than those measured at home, which is explained by a certain nervousness when visiting the doctor (“white coat effect”). In order to be able to assess the blood pressure over time, it makes sense for patients to take regular measurements at home and enter the values ​​in a blood pressure table. The doctor then interprets the results and adjusts therapy if necessary.

Blood pressure: normal values ​​and hypertension classification

According to the German Hypertension League, the following classification applies to blood pressure values:

• Normal blood pressure: 120-129 / 80-84 mmHg
• High normal blood pressure: 130-139 / 85-89 mmHg
• Mild hypertension: 140-159 / 90-99 mmHg
• Moderate hypertension: 160-179 / 100-109 mmHg
• Severe hypertension:> 180 /> 110 mmHg

A systolic value below 120 mmHg and a diastolic blood pressure (also lower blood pressure value) below 80 mmHg are considered to be ideal blood pressure (optimal blood pressure).

Low blood pressure (values> 105 /> 65 mmHg) is often found in young, slim women. Low blood pressure values ​​are also normal in the first six months of pregnancy. High blood pressure (values ​​from 140/90 mmHg) can be inherited (familial hypertension) or occur as a symptom in the context of another disease.

Blood pressure readings in children

The blood pressure values ​​in children are usually lower than those in adults. The pediatrician usually measures the blood pressure values ​​as part of child and adolescent care. Some parents also want to measure their child's blood pressure at home. However, values ​​are strongly dependent on the size and weight of the child and are therefore often incorrectly recorded by laypeople. The professional association of paediatricians, however, offers online information on children's blood pressure values ​​(table and calculator), in which these peculiarities are taken into account.

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