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Pulse Pressure Calculator

Calculate pulse pressure (systolic minus diastolic) from a blood pressure reading and see whether it is normal, wide or narrow.

Enter the systolic (top) and diastolic (bottom) numbers of a blood pressure reading and the calculator shows the pulse pressure, the difference between them, and whether it is in the usual range, wide or narrow. The mean arterial pressure is shown alongside.

Pulse pressure is easy to work out but tells you something the two numbers alone do not: how much the pressure in your arteries swings with each heartbeat. A typical value at rest is about 40 mmHg.

How to use Pulse Pressure Calculator

  1. Enter the systolic (top) number in mmHg.
  2. Enter the diastolic (bottom) number.
  3. Read the pulse pressure and what it means.
  4. Repeat with an average of two or three readings.

Wide and narrow pulse pressure

Pulse pressure is systolic minus diastolic. A reading of 120/80 gives 40 mmHg. Above about 60 mmHg is called wide. It becomes more common after 50 as the large arteries lose their elasticity, and in large studies a wide pulse pressure in older adults is linked to a higher risk of heart attack and stroke. It can also widen temporarily with exercise, fever, pregnancy or an overactive thyroid, and with a leaking aortic valve.

A pulse pressure below a quarter of the systolic value, for example 100/85, is called narrow. It can mean the heart is pumping less blood with each beat, as in heart failure, significant blood loss, a narrowed aortic valve or fluid around the heart, and it deserves medical attention if it is new or you feel unwell.

Getting a reliable number

Because pulse pressure is a difference between two numbers, small errors in either reading change it a lot. Measure after five minutes of rest, sitting, with your arm at heart level and the right cuff size, take two or three readings a minute apart and use the average. Look at the trend over several days rather than one result, and write down the readings with the date and time so you can show them to your doctor. Talk to a doctor if your pulse pressure is often above 60 or very narrow, especially with symptoms such as breathlessness, chest pain or dizziness.

Frequently asked questions

How do I calculate pulse pressure?

Subtract the diastolic (bottom) number from the systolic (top) number. 120/80 gives 40 mmHg.

What is a normal pulse pressure?

About 40 mmHg at rest; roughly 40 to 60 is usual.

What does a wide pulse pressure mean?

Over 60 mmHg often reflects stiff arteries with age, and is linked to higher heart risk. Other causes include fever, exercise and some valve or thyroid problems.

What does a narrow pulse pressure mean?

Below a quarter of the systolic value. It can mean the heart is pumping less blood and should be checked by a doctor if new.

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