Blood pressure reference
Blood pressure chart: ranges and what they mean
Understand adult blood pressure ranges from normal through severe hypertension, how systolic and diastolic numbers work, and how to keep a useful home record.
For most adults, normal blood pressure is below 120/80 mm Hg. A single reading does not confirm a diagnosis; healthcare professionals look at repeated, correctly taken measurements and your individual health situation.
Adult blood pressure categories
The 2025 American Heart Association and American College of Cardiology guideline uses the following categories for adults. If the upper and lower numbers fall into different categories, the higher category applies.
| Category | Systolic (mm Hg) | Diastolic (mm Hg) | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Normal | Below 120 | and | Below 80 |
| Elevated | 120–129 | and | Below 80 |
| Stage 1 hypertension | 130–139 | or | 80–89 |
| Stage 2 hypertension | 140 or higher | or | 90 or higher |
| Severe hypertension | Higher than 180 | and/or | Higher than 120 |
What the two numbers represent
Systolic pressure is the top number. It reflects pressure in the arteries when the heart contracts. Diastolic pressure is the bottom number and reflects pressure when the heart rests between beats.
What to do with an unusually high reading
If a reading is higher than expected, stay still and repeat it after at least one minute. Make sure the cuff and your position are correct.
How to build a useful blood pressure record
- Measure at consistent times recommended by your healthcare professional.
- Record the date, time, systolic number, diastolic number, and any useful context.
- Take two readings one minute apart when your care plan calls for it.
- Bring the record and your monitor to appointments so your technique and device can be checked.
Primary sources
We link directly to the organizations responsible for the medical guidance used on this page.
A useful next step
Keep BP and blood sugar records organized.
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