Is a blood pressure reading of 108/64 considered normal?

Blood Pressure 108/64 mmHg: Classification and Clinical Significance

A blood pressure reading of 108/64 mmHg is classified as optimal and represents an ideal blood pressure level associated with minimal cardiovascular risk.

Blood Pressure Classification

According to established international guidelines, your reading falls into the optimal category:

• Optimal blood pressure is defined as <120/<80 mmHg by both European and American guidelines 1
• Your systolic pressure of 108 mmHg is well below the 120 mmHg threshold 1
• Your diastolic pressure of 64 mmHg is well below the 80 mmHg threshold 1

Cardiovascular Risk Profile

This blood pressure level is associated with the lowest cardiovascular risk:

• Blood pressure of 115/75 mmHg is associated with minimal vascular mortality, and your reading is even lower than this optimal threshold 1
• Cardiovascular risk increases continuously starting from blood pressure levels as low as 115/75 mmHg, meaning your reading of 108/64 mmHg places you at the lowest end of the risk spectrum 1
• For every 20 mmHg systolic or 10 mmHg diastolic increase above 115/75 mmHg, mortality from ischemic heart disease and stroke doubles 1

Clinical Context by Classification System

Different guideline organizations use slightly varying terminology but agree on the favorable nature of your reading:

• European Society of Hypertension/Cardiology (2007): Your BP is "optimal" (<120/<80 mmHg) 1
• JNC 7 (American guidelines): Your BP is "normal" (defined as <120/<80 mmHg) 1
• International Society of Hypertension (2020): Your BP is normal (<130/85 mmHg) 1

Important Caveats

Low Diastolic Pressure Consideration

While your reading is optimal, there is one nuance to consider:

• In elderly patients with isolated systolic hypertension, a very low diastolic pressure (60-70 mmHg) can be a marker of increased arterial stiffness and may represent additional cardiovascular risk 1
• However, this concern applies primarily to elderly individuals who have elevated systolic pressure with low diastolic pressure, not to individuals like yourself with both optimal systolic and diastolic readings 1

Measurement Accuracy

Ensure your reading was obtained properly:

• Blood pressure should be measured with appropriate cuff size, seated and relaxed, with the arm at heart level 1
• Classification should be based on the average of 2 or more properly measured readings on each of 2 or more office visits 1

No Action Required

With a blood pressure of 108/64 mmHg, no medical intervention is needed, and you should continue healthy lifestyle practices to maintain this optimal level 1. Remeasurement is recommended after 3 years according to standard screening protocols 1.