Why does bp increase with age

A doctor can then treat abnormal blood pressure to prevent complications. In this article, we will examine average blood pressure by age. We will also look at the causes of high and low blood pressure and potential treatments. Systolic blood pressure is the highest level of force at which the heart pumps blood around the body. Diastolic blood pressure is the resistance to the blood flow in the blood vessels. If either measurement is too high, it could mean a person has high blood pressure.

If they are too low, it could suggest low blood pressure. Low blood pressure is not generally as much of a problem as high blood pressure. However, consistently low blood pressure could signal a medical condition. A analysis suggests females experience changes in blood pressure earlier than males. The researchers also note that cardiovascular disease presents differently rather than later in females.

High blood pressure, also known as hypertension , does not usually have noticeable symptoms, so the only way for a person to determine whether their blood pressure is within range is to do a blood pressure check. Long-term high blood pressure can increase the risk of several severe and potentially life threatening health conditions, including:. Some medications can also increase blood pressure. Doctors can usually only identify the cause of high blood pressure in a small number of people. They focus on steps to lower blood pressure to within normal limits if they cannot pinpoint the cause.

Low blood pressure, also called hypotension, is not usually as serious as high blood pressure but can still cause a person to experience unwanted symptoms. Causes of low blood pressure could include some medications, being pregnant, and having diabetes. Report side effects.

He or she may be able to make adjustments or switch your medication. Learn more about the symptoms, diagnosis and treatment of hypertension in the Health Library.

High blood pressure often has no symptoms. That can make staying on track with healthy lifestyle changes and medication challenging—you may not feel the difference. These steps can help you stay committed to controlling your blood pressure on a day-to-day basis:.

Use a medication reminder system. Monitor at home. See your doctor as recommended. If your blood pressure is within a healthy range and you do not need medication, you may only need a recheck every two years. Watch for lows and highs. Sometimes blood pressure medications can reduce your blood pressure too much.

If you have signs of low blood pressure—dizziness, fainting, blurred vision, nausea—contact your doctor. On the other hand, if your systolic top number rises to or higher or if your diastolic bottom number rises to or higher, get immediate medical help. Johns Hopkins experts continue their work in understanding and treating high blood pressure in ways that translate into better health today. Notable research you can access includes these findings:.

Link found between taking blood pressure medications and reduced risk of dementia. Intensive treatment lowers blood pressure in African-American men. Urban African-American men face a high risk for untreated hypertension—with fatal consequences. Ask how you can assist with medications. Support healthy efforts.

Cheerleading a new habit can inspire your loved one to stick with it. But trying to control behavior can backfire. Medication can control your blood pressure, but it can't cure it. If your doctor starts you on medication for high blood pressure, you may need to take it long-term. Untreated high blood pressure can increase your risk of serious health problems. If your doctor prescribes medication to lower your blood pressure, remember:.

Read about this topic in Spanish. National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute nhlbiinfo nhlbi. MedlinePlus National Library of Medicine www. American Heart Association toll-free inquiries heart. NIA scientists and other experts review this content to ensure it is accurate and up to date. High Blood Pressure and Older Adults. On this page: What is blood pressure? What are the new normal blood pressure goals , and how have they changed for the elderly? Controlling high blood pressure is a good thing—unless you are a frail older person.

Then it might be harmful.