Blood Pressure Category Checker
Type in your systolic and diastolic numbers to find your AHA blood pressure category.
This runs entirely in your browser. Your numbers are never uploaded or saved anywhere.
How to use this tool
A blood pressure reading has two numbers, written as systolic over diastolic (for example, 120/80). The systolic number is the top number and measures the pressure while your heart beats. The diastolic number is the bottom number and measures the pressure between beats. To use this blood pressure category checker, enter your systolic number in the first box and your diastolic number in the second box, then select Check category. The tool instantly tells you which American Heart Association (AHA) category your reading falls into and shows it with a color so you can read it at a glance.
How it works: the AHA BP categories
The checker uses the same systolic diastolic chart that the AHA publishes. Notice that Normal and Elevated both require the diastolic number to be under 80, while the Stage 1, Stage 2 and Crisis categories trigger if either number is high enough. When your two numbers point to different categories, the higher (more serious) category is the one that applies, which is exactly how the tool decides. A reading at or above 180/120 is treated as a hypertensive crisis and means you should seek medical help.
Important: this is an educational estimate based on a single reading. It is not a diagnosis and not medical advice. Blood pressure changes throughout the day, and only a healthcare professional can interpret your numbers in context. If you are concerned about your blood pressure, talk to a doctor.
A real example
Suppose your reading is 135/85. The systolic number, 135, falls in the 130 to 139 range, which on its own is Stage 1. The diastolic number, 85, falls in the 80 to 89 range, which is also Stage 1. Both numbers agree, so the category is Stage 1 High Blood Pressure (Hypertension). Now suppose your reading is 145/78 instead. The systolic number, 145, lands in the 140 to 179 Stage 2 range, while the diastolic number, 78, would be Normal on its own. Because the tool always takes the more serious result, this reading is classed as Stage 2 High Blood Pressure.
Common questions
What is a normal blood pressure reading?
According to the AHA, a normal blood pressure reading is below 120 systolic and below 80 diastolic, often written as less than 120/80 mmHg. Both numbers need to be in range for the reading to count as normal.
Which number matters more, systolic or diastolic?
Both matter. In these AHA categories a reading is placed in the higher of the two categories suggested by each number, so a single high number is enough to move you up a stage. Doctors often pay extra attention to systolic pressure in older adults.
What is a hypertensive crisis?
A hypertensive crisis is a reading of 180/120 mmHg or higher. If you measure this, wait a few minutes and check again. If it is still that high, or you have symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath or trouble speaking, contact emergency services right away.
Can I rely on a single reading?
No. Blood pressure rises and falls during the day based on activity, stress, caffeine and other factors. Health professionals usually look at several readings taken on different occasions before making any decisions.
Is this tool medical advice?
No. This blood pressure category checker is for general education only. It does not diagnose any condition and is not a substitute for advice from a qualified healthcare provider.