Blood Pressure & Mean Arterial Pressure Calculator
What is Blood Pressure?
Blood pressure is the force of blood pushing against the walls of your arteries as your heart pumps blood. It's measured using two numbers:
- Systolic pressure: The pressure when your heart beats
- Diastolic pressure: The pressure when your heart rests between beats
Blood Pressure Categories
| Category | Systolic (mmHg) | Diastolic (mmHg) |
|---|---|---|
| Normal | Less than 120 | Less than 80 |
| Elevated | 120-129 | Less than 80 |
| Hypertension Stage 1 | 130-139 | 80-89 |
| Hypertension Stage 2 | 140 or higher | 90 or higher |
| Hypertensive Crisis | Higher than 180 | Higher than 120 |
What is Mean Arterial Pressure (MAP)?
Mean Arterial Pressure (MAP) is the average pressure in a patient's arteries during one cardiac cycle. It's considered a better indicator of perfusion to vital organs than systolic blood pressure alone. A normal MAP range is typically between 70 and 100 mmHg.
Why Monitor Your Blood Pressure?
Regular blood pressure monitoring is crucial for:
- Detecting high blood pressure early
- Tracking the effectiveness of lifestyle changes or medications
- Reducing the risk of heart disease, stroke, and kidney problems
- Maintaining overall cardiovascular health