Blood Pressure Checker

Under 120/80 mmHg is normal. 120-129/under 80 is elevated. 130-139/80-89 is Stage 1 hypertension. 140/90 or above is Stage 2 hypertension. Above 180/120 is a hypertensive crisis, seek emergency care. These thresholds come from the ACC/AHA guidelines, with Indian-context health advice added.

Yes: 130/90 falls into Stage 1 hypertension under ACC/AHA guidelines. It's not a medical emergency, but it does signal that lifestyle changes (lower salt, more activity, weight management) and possibly medication are warranted. Get a second reading on a different day to confirm, since BP fluctuates throughout the day.

140/90 is the classic threshold for Stage 2 hypertension under ACC/AHA guidelines. Most Indian doctors will recommend starting antihypertensive medication at this level, especially if you have diabetes, kidney disease, or heart-disease risk factors. Don't self-diagnose. See your doctor for a proper evaluation.

Validated upper-arm digital monitors (Omron, Microlife, Beurer) are accurate to within ±3 mmHg when used correctly. Wrist monitors are less reliable. Take 2-3 readings 1 minute apart while seated quietly with feet flat on the floor. The average is your real reading. Take readings at the same time each day for consistent tracking.

Systolic (the top number) is the pressure when your heart contracts, pushes blood out. Diastolic (the bottom number) is the pressure when your heart relaxes between beats. Both matter, but in adults over 50, systolic is generally the more important predictor of heart disease and stroke risk.

See a doctor if: (a) your reading is consistently 140/90+ across multiple days, (b) your reading is 180/120+ (this is urgent), (c) you have symptoms like chest pain, severe headache, vision changes, or shortness of breath, (d) you have diabetes or kidney disease and BP is 130/80+. PingMeDoc can connect you with a doctor for teleconsultation. See /consult.