Pediatric Blood Pressure Calculator
Calculate blood pressure percentiles for children and adolescents
Child Information
Age range: 1-18 years
Required for accurate percentile calculation
Height is used to determine height percentile for BP assessment
Blood Pressure Measurements
The higher number (pressure during heart contraction)
The lower number (pressure when heart is at rest)
Input Validation:
- ⚠️ Age must be at least 1 year for pediatric BP assessment
Example Assessment
Normal Blood Pressure
Patient: 10-year-old boy, 140 cm tall
BP Reading: 108/65 mmHg
Assessment: Normal (both readings <90th percentile)
Action: Continue routine care and healthy lifestyle
Prehypertension
Patient: 14-year-old girl, 160 cm tall
BP Reading: 125/78 mmHg
Assessment: Prehypertension (90th-95th percentile)
Action: Lifestyle modifications and close monitoring
Hypertension Stage 1
Patient: 12-year-old boy, 150 cm tall
BP Reading: 135/85 mmHg
Assessment: Hypertension Stage 1 (95th-99th percentile)
Action: Medical evaluation and treatment needed
Blood Pressure Categories
Normal
<90th percentile
Routine monitoring
Prehypertension
90th-95th percentile
Lifestyle changes needed
Hypertension Stage 1
95th-99th percentile
Medical evaluation required
Hypertension Stage 2
>99th percentile
Urgent medical attention
Measurement Tips
When to Seek Medical Care
- BP >99th percentile
- Severe headaches
- Vision changes
- Chest pain or difficulty breathing
- BP consistently >90th percentile
- Family history of hypertension
- Obesity or metabolic concerns
- Kidney disease history
Understanding Pediatric Blood Pressure
Why Percentiles Matter
Unlike adults, children's blood pressure varies significantly with age, height, and sex. Percentiles compare your child's BP to other children of the same characteristics, providing a more accurate assessment than fixed values.
Factors Affecting Pediatric BP
- •Age: BP increases gradually with age
- •Height: Taller children have higher normal BP
- •Sex: Boys typically have slightly higher BP
- •Weight: Obesity increases hypertension risk
Clinical Significance
Pediatric hypertension is increasingly common and can lead to cardiovascular disease in adulthood. Early detection and management are crucial for preventing long-term complications and promoting healthy development.
Next Steps by Category
Normal: Continue healthy lifestyle, annual screening
Prehypertension: Diet changes, exercise, monitor closely
Hypertension: Medical evaluation, possible medication, lifestyle intervention
Important Medical Disclaimer
This calculator provides estimates based on simplified pediatric blood pressure guidelines and should never replace professional medical evaluation. Accurate pediatric blood pressure assessment requires proper equipment, technique, and clinical interpretation by qualified healthcare professionals. The percentiles shown are approximations - actual clinical assessment uses detailed growth charts and multiple measurements. Always consult with your child's pediatrician for proper blood pressure evaluation and management. Seek immediate medical attention for any concerning symptoms or significantly elevated readings.