Blood Pressure Calculator

Analyze Blood Pressure Readings

Blood Pressure Measurements

mmHg

Pressure when heart beats

mmHg

Pressure when heart rests

years

For age-specific recommendations

bpm

Beats per minute at rest

How to Measure Blood Pressure

  • Sit quietly for 5 minutes before measuring
  • Keep feet flat on floor, back supported
  • Arm at heart level, palm facing up
  • Take 2-3 readings, 1 minute apart
  • Avoid caffeine, exercise 30 min before

AHA BP Categories

Normal

<120 and <80 mmHg

Elevated

120-129 and <80 mmHg

Stage 1

130-139 or 80-89 mmHg

Stage 2

≥140 or ≥90 mmHg

Crisis

≥180 or ≥120 mmHg

Medical Disclaimer

This calculator is for educational purposes only. Always consult with a healthcare professional for medical advice, diagnosis, and treatment.

Understanding Blood Pressure

Blood pressure measures the force of blood against artery walls. It's recorded as two numbers: systolic (top) and diastolic (bottom).

Key Metrics:

  • Systolic: Pressure when heart contracts
  • Diastolic: Pressure when heart relaxes
  • MAP: Average pressure in arteries during one cardiac cycle
  • Pulse Pressure: Difference between systolic and diastolic

Risk Factors

Factors that increase risk of high blood pressure:

  • Age (risk increases with age)
  • Family history of hypertension
  • Obesity or overweight
  • Physical inactivity
  • High sodium diet
  • Excessive alcohol consumption
  • Smoking and tobacco use
  • Chronic stress
  • Diabetes and kidney disease

Lifestyle Modifications to Lower Blood Pressure

Diet (DASH Diet):

  • Reduce sodium to <2,300 mg/day
  • Increase potassium-rich foods
  • Eat more fruits and vegetables
  • Choose whole grains
  • Limit saturated fats
  • Reduce added sugars

Physical Activity:

  • 150 min/week moderate exercise
  • Aerobic activities (walking, cycling)
  • Strength training 2x/week
  • Reduce sedentary time
  • Take regular breaks to move

Lifestyle Changes:

  • Maintain healthy weight (BMI 18.5-24.9)
  • Limit alcohol (1-2 drinks/day max)
  • Quit smoking and tobacco
  • Manage stress (meditation, yoga)
  • Get 7-9 hours of sleep
  • Monitor BP regularly at home