Blood Pressure Checker

Under 130/85 mmHg is normal. 130-139/85-89 is high-normal. 140-159/90-99 is Grade 1 hypertension. 160/100 or above is Grade 2 hypertension. 180/120 or above is a hypertensive crisis, seek emergency care. These thresholds follow the International Society of Hypertension (ISH 2020) guidelines that Indian doctors use, with Indian-context health advice added.

Yes: a diastolic of 90 puts 130/90 in Grade 1 hypertension under ISH 2020 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.

Yes: 140/90 is where hypertension starts (Grade 1) under ISH 2020 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.