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Blood Pressure Checker
Enter your systolic and diastolic reading to see a classification using the ESC/ESH 2018 Hypertension Guidelines, the standard used by NHS clinicians across the UK.
What Does Your Blood Pressure Reading Mean?
Blood pressure is the force exerted by circulating blood against the walls of your arteries, measured in millimetres of mercury (mmHg) as two numbers: systolic (when your heart beats) over diastolic (between beats). A normal reading for most UK adults is below 120/80 mmHg, while sustained readings above 140/90 mmHg can indicate hypertension, which raises your risk of heart attack, stroke and kidney disease. This free checker classifies your reading using the ESC/ESH 2018 Hypertension Guidelines, the same six-level framework used by NHS clinicians and GPs across the United Kingdom, and endorsed by NICE (NG136). Enter your systolic and diastolic values to see a classification with suggested next steps. Guidance from the British Heart Foundation also underpins the recommended actions shown below. No data is stored and no registration is required.
Enter Your Blood Pressure Reading
For a more accurate reading, rest for 5 minutes before measuring. Take 2 to 3 readings and use the average. Use a validated upper-arm blood pressure monitor.
How Are Blood Pressure Readings Classified?
| Category | Systolic (mmHg) | Diastolic (mmHg) |
|---|---|---|
| Optimal | < 120 | < 80 |
| Normal | 120–129 | 80–84 |
| High Normal | 130–139 | 85–89 |
| Grade 1 Hypertension | 140–159 | 90–99 |
| Grade 2 Hypertension | 160–179 | 100–109 |
| Grade 3 (Severe) | ≥ 180 | ≥ 110 |
Source: Williams B, et al. 2018 ESC/ESH Guidelines for the management of arterial hypertension. European Heart Journal. Endorsed by NICE (NG136).
Important
A single blood pressure reading cannot indicate hypertension on its own. For a reliable picture, readings should be taken on at least two separate occasions using a validated upper-arm monitor. White coat hypertension (elevated readings in clinical settings) is common. If you consistently record high readings, speak with your GP or pharmacist. If your systolic is above 180 mmHg, contact your GP or NHS 111 today.
Clinically reviewed by Tahir Hameed, Pharmacist Independent Prescriber (GPhC: 2210908). Last reviewed: April 2026.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is normal blood pressure in the UK?
According to the NHS and ESC/ESH 2018 guidelines, optimal blood pressure is below 120/80 mmHg. Normal is 120–129 / 80–84 mmHg. Readings consistently above 140/90 mmHg are classified as hypertension and should be discussed with your GP.
How often should I check my blood pressure?
The NHS recommends all adults over 40 have their blood pressure checked at least every 5 years, or more frequently if you have risk factors such as family history, obesity, or high-normal readings. If you are on blood pressure medication, your GP may advise home monitoring.
What should I do if my reading is very high?
If your systolic reading is 180 mmHg or above, or your diastolic is 110 mmHg or above, contact your GP the same day or call NHS 111. If you experience symptoms such as severe headache, chest pain, blurred vision, or difficulty breathing alongside a high reading, call 999 immediately.
Can anxiety affect my blood pressure reading?
Yes. "White coat hypertension" (elevated readings due to anxiety in clinical settings) is common. For a clearer picture, the ESC/ESH guidelines recommend taking readings at home over several days, sitting quietly for 5 minutes beforehand. Ambulatory (24-hour) monitoring is the reference standard used by NHS clinicians to confirm hypertension.
Does this tool store my blood pressure data?
No. All calculations run entirely in your browser. Your systolic and diastolic readings are not sent to any server, stored in any database, or shared with any third party. We recommend keeping a personal log of your readings to share with your GP.
