Toolbox
Blood Pressure Interpreter
Systolic and diastolic classified with metabolic context. Connects BP to insulin resistance, sleep, and mineral balance — not just sodium intake.
Your reading
mmHg
mmHg
Enter your systolic (top number) and diastolic (bottom number) from your most recent reading. Multiple readings averaged across days give a more reliable picture than any single measurement.
Medications that may affect your result
ACE inhibitors (lisinopril, enalapril) and ARBs (losartan, valsartan) lower blood pressure by relaxing blood vessels. Readings on these medications reflect the medicated state — your unmedicated pressure would be higher.
Beta-blockers (metoprolol, atenolol) lower both blood pressure and heart rate. May mask underlying blood pressure trends in either direction.
Diuretics (hydrochlorothiazide, chlorthalidone) lower blood pressure by reducing fluid volume. Can also affect electrolyte balance — potassium and magnesium levels should be monitored.
NSAIDs (ibuprofen, naproxen) can raise blood pressure, particularly with regular long-term use.
Decongestants (pseudoephedrine) and stimulants can transiently elevate blood pressure.
If you are on any of these medications, your reading reflects the medicated state. Discuss trends with your healthcare provider.
About this tool
Formula
Blood pressure is read directly from a sphygmomanometer (cuff). No formula — the values are read off the device. Best practice: seated, feet on floor, arm at heart level, after 5 minutes of rest, no caffeine or exercise in the preceding 30 minutes.
Classification
Based on AHA/ACC 2017 guidelines (maintained in 2025 update). Optimal (<110/70) and Healthy Range (110-119/70-79) are LLX sub-divisions of the AHA “Normal” category (<120/80), providing more granularity. Elevated: 120-129/<80. Stage 1: 130-139 or 80-89. Stage 2: ≥140 or ≥90. Hypertensive crisis: >180 and/or >120.
When values fall in different categories: the higher-risk reading determines the classification. This follows AHA guidance — a systolic of 125 with a diastolic of 92 is classified as Stage 2, not Elevated.
Known Limitations
A single office reading is the least reliable way to assess blood pressure. White coat hypertension (elevated readings in clinical settings) affects up to 30% of people. Home monitoring averages across multiple readings on different days are more informative. Blood pressure has significant diurnal variation — morning readings are typically higher. Arm position, cuff size, recent caffeine, and bladder fullness all affect accuracy.
Sources
Whelton PK, et al. 2017 ACC/AHA Guideline for the Prevention, Detection, Evaluation, and Management of High Blood Pressure in Adults. Journal of the American College of Cardiology, 2018. 2025 AHA/ACC/Multisociety HBP Guideline update. Circulation, 2025.
Educational tool only. Not for diagnostic purposes. Consult a healthcare provider for medical decisions.