Blood Pressure Checker
Enter your blood pressure to see where it sits against UK (NICE) guidance. This is a guide for adults and does not diagnose high blood pressure.
For adults aged 18 and over. Not for use in pregnancy, where different advice applies. This tool is for general information only and does not replace medical advice. If you have chest pain, severe shortness of breath, weakness on one side, difficulty speaking, a severe headache or sudden vision changes, call 999.
How the checker works
The ranges follow NICE guideline NG136 on hypertension in adults. Diagnosis is based on repeated readings, so a single value is never enough.
| Category | Clinic reading | Home average (or daytime ambulatory) |
|---|---|---|
| Lower than usual | Below 90 systolic or below 60 diastolic | |
| Normal | Below 120/80 | |
| Slightly raised | 120/80 up to 139/89 | 120/80 up to 134/84 |
| Possible stage 1 high blood pressure | 140/90 or above | 135/85 or above |
| Possible stage 2 high blood pressure | 160/100 or above | 150/95 or above |
| Very high: seek advice the same day | 180 systolic or above, or 120 diastolic or above | |
How to take a reliable home reading
- Rest seated for 5 minutes, with your back supported, feet flat and arm resting at heart level.
- Avoid caffeine, smoking and exercise for 30 minutes before.
- Take two readings at least 1 minute apart, morning and evening.
- Do this for 4 to 7 days, ignore the first day, and enter the average of the rest.
Source: NICE guideline NG136, Hypertension in adults. Read more about hypertension, its causes and treatment.
Want to understand your reading in more detail?
Our hypertension guide explains the causes, symptoms, tests and treatment of high blood pressure.
Read the hypertension guide