Blood Pressure Checker
Enter your blood pressure reading to see your category based on AHA/ACC guidelines.
Medical Disclaimer: This tool is for educational purposes only. A single blood pressure reading does not constitute a diagnosis. Blood pressure should be measured multiple times under proper conditions. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider.
| Category | Systolic | Diastolic |
|---|---|---|
| Normal | < 120 | < 80 |
| Elevated | 120–129 | < 80 |
| Stage 1 HTN | 130–139 | 80–89 |
| Stage 2 HTN | ≥ 140 | ≥ 90 |
| Crisis | > 180 | > 120 |
Understanding Blood Pressure
Blood pressure is the force of blood pushing against artery walls as the heart pumps. It is measured in millimeters of mercury (mmHg) and recorded as two numbers: systolic (pressure during heartbeats) over diastolic (pressure between beats). For example, a reading of 120/80 mmHg is read as "120 over 80."
AHA/ACC 2017 Blood Pressure Categories
The American Heart Association and American College of Cardiology updated their blood pressure classification guidelines in 2017, lowering the threshold for hypertension from 140/90 to 130/80 mmHg:
- Normal: Systolic < 120 AND Diastolic < 80 — Maintain healthy lifestyle habits.
- Elevated: Systolic 120–129 AND Diastolic < 80 — Lifestyle changes recommended; no medication typically needed.
- Hypertension Stage 1: Systolic 130–139 OR Diastolic 80–89 — Lifestyle changes plus possible medication depending on cardiovascular risk.
- Hypertension Stage 2: Systolic ≥ 140 OR Diastolic ≥ 90 — Lifestyle changes plus two or more antihypertensive medications.
- Hypertensive Crisis: Systolic > 180 AND/OR Diastolic > 120 — Requires immediate medical attention.
Why Blood Pressure Matters for Heart Health
Chronic hypertension is the single most important modifiable risk factor for cardiovascular disease worldwide. It increases the risk of heart attack, stroke, heart failure, aortic aneurysm, and chronic kidney disease. Regular monitoring and early intervention are key to prevention.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is normal blood pressure?
Normal blood pressure is below 120/80 mmHg. Elevated blood pressure is 120–129 systolic with less than 80 diastolic. Stage 1 hypertension is 130–139/80–89, and Stage 2 hypertension is 140+/90+. A hypertensive crisis (above 180/120) requires immediate medical attention.
What do systolic and diastolic numbers mean?
Systolic pressure (top number) measures the force when your heart beats and pushes blood through arteries. Diastolic pressure (bottom number) measures the pressure when your heart rests between beats. Both numbers are important — isolated systolic hypertension is common in older adults and increases stroke risk.
How does high blood pressure affect the heart?
Chronic hypertension forces the heart to work harder, leading to left ventricular hypertrophy (thickened heart muscle). Over time, this increases risk of heart failure, coronary artery disease, atrial fibrillation, stroke, and kidney disease. It's often called the 'silent killer' because it usually has no symptoms.
Can Apple Watch measure blood pressure?
As of 2026, Apple Watch cannot directly measure blood pressure. Some smartwatches offer estimates using pulse wave analysis, but these are not clinically validated. For accurate readings, use a validated upper-arm blood pressure cuff. HeartLab complements BP monitoring by tracking your heart rhythm and detecting arrhythmias.
How often should I check my blood pressure?
If you have normal blood pressure, check at least once a year. If you have elevated or high blood pressure, check at home daily or as recommended by your doctor. Measure at the same time each day, sitting quietly for 5 minutes before the reading, and take 2–3 readings one minute apart.
Complete Heart Monitoring with HeartLab
Pair blood pressure tracking with ECG analysis from HeartLab — the most comprehensive heart health app for Apple Watch.
