Blood Pressure Checker
Enter your blood pressure reading to see your category based on American Heart Association guidelines.
Understanding Blood Pressure Numbers
Blood pressure is measured in millimeters of mercury (mmHg) and written as two numbers. The systolic number (top) measures the pressure in your arteries when your heart beats. The diastolic number (bottom) measures the pressure between beats when your heart is resting. Both numbers matter for determining your category.
Blood Pressure Categories (AHA 2017 Guidelines)
Normal: Below 120/80 mmHg. No treatment needed. Elevated: Systolic 120-129 and diastolic below 80. Lifestyle changes recommended. Stage 1 Hypertension: Systolic 130-139 or diastolic 80-89. Lifestyle changes and possibly medication. Stage 2 Hypertension: Systolic 140+ or diastolic 90+. Medication and lifestyle changes. Hypertensive Crisis: Systolic above 180 and/or diastolic above 120. Seek emergency care.
Why Blood Pressure Matters
High blood pressure (hypertension) is called the "silent killer" because it usually has no symptoms until it causes serious damage. Over time, high blood pressure damages blood vessel walls, leading to heart attack, stroke, kidney disease, vision loss, and heart failure. Nearly half of American adults have high blood pressure, and many do not know it. Regular monitoring is the only way to detect it early.
How to Lower Blood Pressure Naturally
Reduce sodium to under 2,300mg per day (ideally under 1,500mg). Exercise at least 150 minutes per week of moderate activity. Maintain a healthy weight since each kilogram lost can lower blood pressure by about 1 mmHg. Eat a DASH diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein. Limit alcohol to one drink per day for women and two for men. Manage stress through regular sleep, relaxation techniques, and social connection. Quit smoking since nicotine raises blood pressure acutely and damages blood vessels over time.
Blood Pressure FAQ
What time of day is blood pressure highest?
Blood pressure is typically lowest during sleep and rises in the morning. It tends to peak in the late afternoon. For consistent monitoring, measure at the same time each day, ideally in the morning before medications and in the evening. Take 2-3 readings each time and average them.
Can anxiety cause high blood pressure readings?
Yes. Anxiety and stress can temporarily raise blood pressure, a phenomenon known as "white coat hypertension" when it happens in a medical setting. If you suspect this, home monitoring over several days gives a more accurate picture than a single reading at the doctor's office.
Is 140/90 dangerous?
A reading of 140/90 is Stage 2 hypertension. While not an immediate emergency, it significantly raises your long-term risk of heart attack, stroke, and kidney damage. You should see your doctor, who will likely recommend medication along with lifestyle changes. Untreated Stage 2 hypertension doubles or triples cardiovascular risk over time.
How often should I check my blood pressure?
If your blood pressure is normal, check it at least once a year during a routine physical. If you have elevated blood pressure or hypertension, your doctor may recommend daily or weekly home monitoring. Home blood pressure monitors are inexpensive ($30-60) and provide much better data than occasional office visits.
Does caffeine raise blood pressure?
Caffeine can cause a short-term spike of 5-10 mmHg, especially in people who do not consume it regularly. If you are monitoring your blood pressure, avoid caffeine for 30 minutes before taking a reading. For most regular coffee drinkers, the long-term effect on blood pressure is minimal.