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Blood Pressure Check
🩺 Blood Pressure Checker
Classify a blood pressure reading against the American Heart Association's categories — from normal through hypertensive crisis — to know whether a number deserves a closer look.
| Category | Systolic | Diastolic |
|---|
| Normal | <120 | <80 |
| Elevated | 120–129 | <80 |
| Stage 1 | 130–139 | 80–89 |
| Stage 2 | ≥140 | ≥90 |
| Crisis | >180 | >120 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a single reading enough to diagnose hypertension?
No — blood pressure naturally fluctuates throughout the day. A diagnosis typically requires multiple elevated readings across separate visits, not a one-off measurement.
What should I do if my reading falls in the 'Crisis' category?
A reading above 180/120 mmHg, especially with symptoms like chest pain, shortness of breath, or severe headache, warrants immediate medical attention rather than waiting for a routine appointment.
Can stress or caffeine before measuring affect the result?
Yes — caffeine, stress, exercise, and even a full bladder can temporarily raise readings, which is why clinics recommend sitting quietly for several minutes before measuring.
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