**Changes caused by aging itself generally do not go away on their own, but temporary changes in your vital signs can improve when their cause resolves.**
Your resting pulse and breathing rate usually stay fairly stable as you age, while blood pressure can rise. Your body may also have more trouble managing heat and cold. Illness, dehydration, and medicines can affect your readings, so a new change needs attention rather than being assumed to reflect aging. Regular physical activity, protection from temperature extremes, and a clinician's review of persistent changes can help you stay well.
What to watch as you age
Common questions
Can Aging changes in vital signs go away on its own?
Changes caused by aging itself generally persist, but a temporary change from exercise or illness can settle as you recover. Your resting pulse and breathing rate usually change little with age, so a new abnormal reading should not be dismissed as aging. Record repeated readings taken at rest and any symptoms. Ask a clinician about persistent changes, dizziness, or an unusually fast, slow, or irregular pulse; medicines may contribute and need review. Do not change medicines yourself. Call 911 if you have chest pain, severe trouble breathing, or new confusion.