Blood Pressure Category
ESC/ESH 2018 blood pressure staging
Reviewed by the Nutricity editorial teamLast updated:
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How it is classified
The category is based on systolic and diastolic values, using ESC/ESH 2018 thresholds:
| Category | Systolic | Diastolic |
|---|---|---|
| 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 hypertension | ≥ 180 | ≥ 110 |
Isolated systolic hypertension is flagged when systolic is ≥ 140 mmHg and diastolic is < 90 mmHg.
How to interpret the result
A single reading is not enough to diagnose hypertension. Blood pressure varies during the day and should be confirmed by repeated measurements, ideally with home or ambulatory monitoring.
What to do about your result
For elevated readings, lifestyle measures include reducing salt, maintaining a healthy weight, regular physical activity, limiting alcohol and not smoking. Persistent elevation requires medical review. For related cardiovascular risk see SCORE2 and ASCVD risk.
Limitations
- One reading cannot diagnose hypertension.
- Thresholds may differ slightly between guidelines (e.g. ACC/AHA use lower cut-offs).
- This is a screening classification, not a diagnosis.
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Frequently asked questions
What is isolated systolic hypertension?
It is when systolic pressure is elevated (≥ 140 mmHg) but diastolic pressure remains below 90 mmHg, common in older adults.
Can one reading diagnose hypertension?
No. Hypertension is diagnosed from repeated readings, often with home or ambulatory monitoring.
What should I do if my reading is high?
Repeat the measurement at rest on different days. If readings stay high, consult a doctor.