Blood Pressure Category Calculator
Find out which blood pressure category your reading falls into using ACC/AHA guidelines. Enter your systolic (top) and diastolic (bottom) numbers and this calculator classifies the result from low through hypertensive crisis, with guidance on what to do.
Rates and fees change frequently. Always confirm the current figures
with the official authority before relying on this result.
- Educational classification only. Diagnosis and treatment require a healthcare professional.
Formula
Category based on ACC/AHA thresholds for systolic and diastolic pressure.
- Your category is set by whichever number — systolic or diastolic — falls into the higher band.
- ACC/AHA bands: Normal <120/<80; Elevated 120–129/<80; Stage 1 130–139 or 80–89; Stage 2 ≥140 or ≥90; Crisis >180 or >120.
- Systolic is the pressure when your heart beats; diastolic is the pressure between beats.
- A single reading is a snapshot — blood pressure varies through the day, so several measurements give a better picture.
- This is an educational classification only and does not diagnose hypertension; a clinician should confirm any reading.
A reading of 120/80 mmHg
Inputs
- Systolic (top number): 120 mmHg
- Diastolic (bottom number): 80 mmHg
A systolic of 120 puts this reading in the 'Elevated' band even though the diastolic of 80 is on the normal/Stage 1 edge — the higher category wins.
Frequently asked questions
What is a normal blood pressure?
Under ACC/AHA guidelines, normal is below 120/80 mmHg. Between 120–129 systolic with diastolic under 80 is 'Elevated'.
What do the two numbers mean?
The top (systolic) number is the pressure as your heart beats; the bottom (diastolic) is the pressure while it rests between beats.
When is blood pressure an emergency?
A reading above 180/120 mmHg is a hypertensive crisis. If you also have symptoms like chest pain or shortness of breath, seek emergency care immediately.
Why use the higher number for the category?
Either an elevated systolic or an elevated diastolic raises cardiovascular risk, so guidelines classify by whichever is more severe.
Is one high reading a diagnosis?
No. Blood pressure fluctuates, so diagnosis relies on multiple readings over time confirmed by a healthcare professional.
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