Things like exercise, stress, and sleeping can affect your blood pressure. It's normal for blood pressure to go up and down throughout the day. What can cause a short-term change in blood pressure? A blood pressure reading of less than 90/60 is normal as long as you feel okay. In general, the lower your blood pressure, the better. If you have diabetes, it should be less than 130/80 ('130 over 80'). If you are 80 years and older, it should be less than 150/90 (“150 over 90”). Your blood pressure should be less than 140/90 ('140 over 90'). Someone with a systolic pressure of 117 and a diastolic pressure of 78 has a blood pressure of 117/78, or '117 over 78.'īlood pressure that is too high increases your risk for heart attack and stroke. Your blood pressure consists of two numbers: systolic and diastolic. This information can help you understand what your blood pressure numbers mean and when you need to call for help. If you check your blood pressure, you may wonder when an abnormal reading means you should call your doctor.
