Is my blood pressure OK?
Enter the two numbers from your monitor. You'll see your category, where you are on the chart, and exactly what to do next.
Blood pressure categories
| Category | Systolic / diastolic (mmHg) |
|---|---|
| Ideal (optimal) | < 120 and < 80 |
| Normal | 120–129 and/or 80–84 |
| High normal | 130–139 and/or 85–89 |
| Hypertension stage 1 | 140–159 and/or 90–99 |
| Hypertension stage 2 | 160–179 and/or 100–109 |
| Hypertension stage 3 | ≥ 180 and/or ≥ 110 |
| Low blood pressure | systolic < 90 or diastolic < 60, the other number not raised |
The higher category of the two numbers counts. Low means systolic below 90 or diastolic below 60 while the other number is not raised.
International categories (European Society of Hypertension (ESH) 2023). In the US, 130/80 and above already counts as hypertension — every reading page shows both. Browse all readings →
Understand your blood pressure
Quick answers
What is a good blood pressure?
Below 120/80 is ideal. Up to 129/84 is normal by international guidelines; from 140/90 it counts as hypertension (in the US already from 130/80). See ideal blood pressure.
Which number counts more?
The higher category of the two decides. After about 50, the systolic (upper) number is the stronger predictor of heart attack and stroke.
When is blood pressure dangerous?
At 180/110 or higher, sit quietly for 5 minutes and measure again. With chest pain, shortness of breath, back pain, numbness or weakness, vision or speech problems, confusion or a severe headache, call 911 (US) or your local emergency number. Without symptoms but still that high, contact a doctor the same day. See Hypertension Stage 3 (180/110 and Above): Act Now. Very low readings matter too: below 70 systolic or 40 diastolic, measure again now — if it is real and you feel faint, confused, short of breath, or cold and clammy, call 911 (US) or your local emergency number; otherwise contact a doctor today.
How do I measure correctly?
Upper-arm cuff, 5 minutes of quiet sitting, arm at heart level, two readings a minute apart. Full checklist: Measuring Blood Pressure Correctly: Step by Step.