What is a normal blood pressure reading?

A normal blood pressure for adults is below 120/80 mmHg. The first number (systolic) measures pressure when your heart beats, and the second (diastolic) measures pressure between beats. Readings should be taken at rest.

How often should I check my blood pressure?

The Heart Foundation recommends all Australian adults have their blood pressure checked at least every two years from age 18. If you have risk factors or a reading above 120/80, check more frequently — your GP can advise on the right interval.

Does weight loss lower blood pressure?

Yes. Losing even 5 kg can reduce blood pressure by 5-10 mmHg. The combination of weight loss, reduced sodium intake, regular exercise, and limiting alcohol is often as effective as medication for mild hypertension.

When should I see a doctor about my blood pressure?

See a GP if your reading is consistently above 140/90, or immediately if above 180/120 (hypertensive crisis). A single high reading does not mean you have hypertension — your doctor will want multiple readings over time.

Blood Pressure Calculator

Enter your blood pressure reading to find out which category it falls into — from normal to hypertensive crisis. This calculator uses internationally recognised categories and includes age-based reference ranges relevant to Australian adults.

Enter Your Details

Systolic (top number)

mmHg

Diastolic (bottom number)

mmHg

Age (optional)

years

For age-specific context

How It Works

Blood pressure is measured as systolic (top number) over diastolic (bottom number) in mmHg. Categories are: Normal (below 120/80), Elevated (120-129 systolic with diastolic below 80), Stage 1 Hypertension (130-139/80-89), Stage 2 Hypertension (140+/90+), and Hypertensive Crisis (above 180/120). The calculator uses the higher category if systolic and diastolic fall into different ranges.

Quick Reference

Category	Systolic (mmHg)	Diastolic (mmHg)
Low (Hypotension)	< 90	< 60
Normal	< 120	< 80
Elevated	120-129	< 80
Stage 1 Hypertension	130-139	80-89
Stage 2 Hypertension	140+	90+
Hypertensive Crisis	> 180	> 120
---	---	---
Age 18-39 typical	110-120	70-80
Age 40-59 typical	115-130	75-85
Age 60+ typical	120-140	70-80

Age-based ranges are averages. Individual targets may vary based on health conditions. Source: Heart Foundation Australia.

How This Is Calculated

BP Category = classify(systolic, diastolic)

systolic: = top number — pressure when heart contracts (mmHg)
diastolic: = bottom number — pressure between heartbeats (mmHg)

The higher category applies when systolic and diastolic fall in different ranges. A single reading does not diagnose hypertension — your GP will take multiple readings over time.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a normal blood pressure reading?: A normal blood pressure for adults is below 120/80 mmHg. The first number (systolic) measures pressure when your heart beats, and the second (diastolic) measures pressure between beats. Readings should be taken at rest.
How often should I check my blood pressure?: The Heart Foundation recommends all Australian adults have their blood pressure checked at least every two years from age 18. If you have risk factors or a reading above 120/80, check more frequently — your GP can advise on the right interval.
Does weight loss lower blood pressure?: Yes. Losing even 5 kg can reduce blood pressure by 5-10 mmHg. The combination of weight loss, reduced sodium intake, regular exercise, and limiting alcohol is often as effective as medication for mild hypertension.
When should I see a doctor about my blood pressure?: See a GP if your reading is consistently above 140/90, or immediately if above 180/120 (hypertensive crisis). A single high reading does not mean you have hypertension — your doctor will want multiple readings over time.

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