Blood pressure quantifies the force exerted by circulating blood against the walls of the body’s arteries. This force is reported as two numbers, and a reading of 104 over 60 millimeters of mercury (mmHg) represents a specific snapshot of this pressure. While this reading falls within an acceptable range, its interpretation depends entirely on the individual’s typical health status and whether they are experiencing physical symptoms.
Understanding Blood Pressure Ranges
Blood pressure is given as two figures: systolic and diastolic pressure. The systolic number (104) measures the pressure when the heart contracts and pumps blood out. The diastolic number (60) measures the pressure when the heart rests between beats.
For adults, normal blood pressure is defined as lower than 120 mmHg systolic and less than 80 mmHg diastolic. A reading of 104/60 mmHg falls squarely within this “Normal” category. This is well below the “Elevated” category, which begins when systolic pressure is between 120 and 129 mmHg and diastolic pressure is less than 80 mmHg.
A reading of 104/60 mmHg is on the lower end of the normal spectrum. Hypotension is clinically defined as less than 90 mmHg systolic or less than 60 mmHg diastolic. Although 104/60 mmHg is not hypotension, its proximity to the low range may be a point of consideration if symptoms are present.
Potential Symptoms of Low Pressure
Even though 104/60 mmHg is technically within the normal range, a person may still experience symptoms if this number represents a significant drop from their usual reading. A sudden decrease can temporarily reduce blood flow to the brain and other organs. The presence of symptoms is often more significant than the number itself when evaluating a lower reading.
Common physical manifestations include lightheadedness or dizziness, and a general sense of fatigue or weakness. Some people report blurred or fading vision, particularly when changing positions quickly, such as standing up.
Other symptoms can include nausea or trouble concentrating. If a person is consistently at 104/60 mmHg and feels fine, the reading is simply their baseline.
Common Factors Influencing Lower Readings
A blood pressure reading of 104/60 mmHg can be the result of several common factors. Individuals who maintain a high level of cardiovascular fitness, such as endurance athletes, often have naturally lower resting blood pressure because their hearts are highly efficient.
Dehydration is a frequent cause of a temporary dip because a reduction in fluid volume decreases the amount of blood circulating. Certain medications can also influence readings, including those prescribed for high blood pressure, such as beta-blockers or diuretics.
Genetics also plays a role, as some people are predisposed to having a lower baseline blood pressure. Furthermore, blood pressure is naturally lower during sleep and rises upon waking. Postural hypotension, or orthostatic hypotension, is a common phenomenon where pressure temporarily drops upon standing.
When to Consult a Healthcare Professional
While 104/60 mmHg is not automatically concerning, specific circumstances warrant consultation with a healthcare professional. If the reading is consistently accompanied by persistent, bothersome symptoms like chronic dizziness, recurring fatigue, or frequent lightheadedness, a doctor should evaluate the cause.
Discuss any current medications with your provider. A drug that is lowering your blood pressure may need a dosage adjustment if the reading is causing uncomfortable side effects. Seek immediate medical care if a low reading is accompanied by severe symptoms, such as fainting, confusion, rapid shallow breathing, or chest pain.