Blood Pressure Category Calculator
Enter a blood-pressure reading and see which ACC/AHA category it falls into, from normal through hypertensive crisis.
How it works
Normal < 120/80 · Elevated 120–129 and < 80 · Stage 1 130–139 or 80–89 · Stage 2 ≥ 140 or ≥ 90 · Crisis ≥ 180 or ≥ 120
The 2017 American College of Cardiology / American Heart Association guideline sorts a reading into five bands using whichever number lands in the higher category. Normal is under 120/80. "Elevated" flags 120–129 systolic while diastolic stays under 80. Stage 1 begins at 130–139 or 80–89, Stage 2 at 140 or 90, and a hypertensive crisis at 180 or 120, which needs prompt attention. Because pressure varies through the day, a real diagnosis rests on the average of several readings, not one measurement.
Worked example
A 135/85 reading falls into Hypertension Stage 1: the systolic sits in the 130–139 band, which is enough on its own to set the category even though many readings look close to normal.
Frequently asked questions
Which number decides my category if they disagree?
The higher category wins. If your systolic is Stage 1 but your diastolic is Stage 2, the reading is classified as Stage 2. That is why a normal-looking bottom number does not cancel out a high top number.
Is one high reading a diagnosis of hypertension?
No. Blood pressure naturally swings with activity, stress and time of day. A diagnosis is based on the average of several proper measurements taken on different occasions, ideally including readings outside the clinic.
What should I do about a crisis-level reading?
A reading at or above 180/120 is treated as urgent. Rest and re-measure after a few minutes; if it stays that high, or you have chest pain, breathlessness or vision changes, seek emergency care right away.
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Educational estimate, not medical advice — for clinical decisions consult a healthcare professional.