How the calculation works
Uses adult blood pressure categories: normal below 120/80; elevated 120–129 with diastolic below 80; stage 1 at systolic 130–139 or diastolic 80–89; stage 2 at systolic ≥140 or diastolic ≥90. The higher category applies.
Worked example
A reading of 132/76 mm Hg is in the stage 1 hypertension range because the systolic pressure is 132, even though diastolic pressure is below 80.
Understanding the result
A clinical hypertension diagnosis generally considers averaged, correctly measured readings across occasions, not a single result. Cuff size, resting position, anxiety, and technique can affect a reading.
Very high blood pressure with symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath, weakness, or trouble speaking is an emergency and needs immediate assessment.
Limitations
For nonpregnant adults; pediatric and pregnancy-specific classifications differ.