Blood is circulated to all parts of the body through the circulatory system. Blood pressure is the force or pressure with which it is circulated all through the body. Maintaining the blood pressure within the normal range is vital to the smooth functioning of all the organs.

Blood supplies oxygen and other vital nutrients to various organs of the body. Proper supply of these nutrients happens only when normal blood pressure range is maintained. Apart from these nutrients, blood also supplies antibodies and hormones throughout the body.

The heart is the main source of blood pressure. It functions like a pump that continuously pumps blood to the circulatory system. Blood is forced out during each contraction. The blood flow throughout the body is due to different pressure levels for various parts. Blood pressure is highest at the point it is pumped out of the heart, from there on its pressure decreases. The pressure is lowest at the smaller branches of arteries. The walls of the arteries are elastic, which helps in maintaining the blood pressure and allowing free flow.

A sphygmomanometer is used to measure blood pressure, and its measure unit is in mmHg.

Normal Blood Pressure Levels based on Age
Physicians rely on blood pressure level charts to check and compare measured blood pressure with the against normal range. The blood pressure chart can be used as a reference for adults of any age. The National Institutes of Health has fixed the normal blood pressure as 120 mmHg as systolic and 80 mmHg as diastolic. According to the American Heart Association, 130/80 is considered as high blood pressure.

Blood pressure charts for adults show that low blood pressure range is from 70/40 to 90/60. Ideal blood pressure ranges from 90/60 to 120/80. From 120/80 to 140/90, it is considered as pre-high blood pressure. From 140/90 to 190/100, it is considered high blood pressure. In addition to the readings, physicians also consider the age of the patient during diagnosis.

Those with more than normal blood pressure need to adopt a healthy lifestyle to prevent the development of cardiovascular diseases.

The condition of the arteries is extremely important in maintaining a normal blood pressure range. Constricted or narrowed arteries alter the pressure causing it to fall out of the normal blood pressure range. Altered blood pressure, when left unchecked, may lead to serious health issues.