Blood Pressure Category Calculator
Enter your systolic and diastolic blood pressure reading to see which standard category it falls into, based on American Heart Association thresholds.
How the Blood Pressure Category formula works
Standard blood pressure categories (mmHg):
Normal: systolic <120 AND diastolic <80 Elevated: systolic 120–129 AND diastolic <80 Hypertension Stage 1: systolic 130–139 OR diastolic 80–89 Hypertension Stage 2: systolic ≥140 OR diastolic ≥90 Hypertensive Crisis: systolic >180 AND/OR diastolic >120
Step-by-step calculation
- Compare your systolic (top) number against the category thresholds.
- Compare your diastolic (bottom) number against the category thresholds.
- Whichever number falls into the more severe category determines your overall category, since either value alone can trigger a higher classification.
Worked example
A reading of 128/82: systolic 128 falls in the 'Elevated' range, but diastolic 82 falls in the 'Hypertension Stage 1' range — since either number can trigger the higher category, this reading is classified as Hypertension Stage 1.
Frequently asked questions
Is this a medical diagnosis?
No — this tool categorizes a single reading against published reference thresholds for general information only. Blood pressure fluctuates and a proper diagnosis requires multiple readings over time evaluated by a healthcare provider.
What should I do if my reading falls in the 'Hypertensive Crisis' range?
A reading above 180/120 warrants prompt medical attention, especially if accompanied by symptoms like chest pain, shortness of breath, or vision changes — this is a situation to contact a healthcare provider or emergency services about, not just monitor at home.