What is a commonly cited normal systolic/diastolic range for adults?

What is a commonly cited normal systolic/diastolic range for adults?

• A. 160/100
• B. 120/80
• C. 95/60
• D. 180/120

Answer: (B)

Understanding resting blood pressure involves two numbers: systolic pressure, the peak pressure in the arteries when the heart contracts, and diastolic pressure, the pressure when the heart rests between beats. A commonly cited normal range for adults is about 120 systolic over 80 diastolic (120/80 mmHg). This combination reflects enough arterial pressure to perfuse organs effectively without placing excessive strain on blood vessels, which lowers long-term risk for heart disease and stroke. The other values illustrate cardiovascular states that are not considered normal. A reading like 160/100 is clearly elevated and consistent with hypertension, which increases the risk of heart attack and stroke if persistent. A reading such as 95/60 is lower than typical normal and can indicate hypotension, potentially reducing blood flow to vital organs. A value like 180/120 is a hypertensive crisis and requires urgent medical attention due to the immediate danger of organ damage.

Understanding resting blood pressure involves two numbers: systolic pressure, the peak pressure in the arteries when the heart contracts, and diastolic pressure, the pressure when the heart rests between beats. A commonly cited normal range for adults is about 120 systolic over 80 diastolic (120/80 mmHg). This combination reflects enough arterial pressure to perfuse organs effectively without placing excessive strain on blood vessels, which lowers long-term risk for heart disease and stroke.

The other values illustrate cardiovascular states that are not considered normal. A reading like 160/100 is clearly elevated and consistent with hypertension, which increases the risk of heart attack and stroke if persistent. A reading such as 95/60 is lower than typical normal and can indicate hypotension, potentially reducing blood flow to vital organs. A value like 180/120 is a hypertensive crisis and requires urgent medical attention due to the immediate danger of organ damage.