What is the normal range for adult blood pressure?

The normal range for adult blood pressure is 90/60 mmHg to 120/80 mmHg. This range represents what is widely considered optimal blood pressure levels for adults. Blood pressure readings consist of two numbers: the systolic pressure (the higher number, measuring the pressure in the arteries when the heart beats) and the diastolic pressure (the lower number, measuring the pressure in the arteries when the heart is at rest between beats).

A reading within this normal range indicates effective circulation and a healthy functioning heart. Blood pressure outside of this range can signify various health issues. For instance, systolic pressures consistently above 120 mmHg can indicate the early stages of hypertension, while lower pressures below 90/60 mmHg may be considered hypotension, potentially leading to inadequate blood flow to organs.

Values outside of the normal range, such as those in the other options, fall either into hypotensive or hypertensive categories, which are important for healthcare providers to consider in patient assessments and management strategies.