Blood Pressure Calculator
BP Category, MAP & Cardiovascular Risk Assessment
Calculate your blood pressure category, mean arterial pressure, and get personalized recommendations based on American Heart Association (AHA) guidelines.
Blood Pressure Measurements
Pressure when heart beats
Pressure when heart rests
For age-specific recommendations
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
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