Pulse Pressure Calculator
Calculate your pulse pressure — the difference between your systolic and diastolic blood pressure — and learn what it reveals about your arterial health.
What is pulse pressure?
Pulse pressure is the difference between your systolic blood pressure (the higher number, when your heart contracts) and your diastolic blood pressure (the lower number, when your heart relaxes). For a reading of 120 over 80, the pulse pressure is 40 mmHg. While blood pressure tells you the overall force in your arteries, pulse pressure reflects the force your heart generates with each beat and the stiffness of your arteries. It is an increasingly recognised marker of cardiovascular health, especially in older adults.
What is a normal pulse pressure?
A normal pulse pressure is generally considered to be between 40 and 60 mmHg. A pulse pressure below 40 is described as narrow, and one above 60 as wide. As people age, arteries naturally stiffen, which tends to widen pulse pressure. A consistently wide pulse pressure is associated with increased arterial stiffness and a higher risk of cardiovascular events, while a very narrow pulse pressure can occur with certain heart conditions or significant blood loss.
Why wide pulse pressure matters
A wide pulse pressure, particularly above 60 mmHg, often reflects stiffening of the large arteries such as the aorta. Stiffer arteries do not expand and recoil as effectively, so the heart must work harder and the cardiovascular system experiences more stress. Research has linked wide pulse pressure to a greater risk of heart attack, stroke and other cardiovascular problems, especially in middle-aged and older adults. It can also be influenced by conditions affecting the heart valves.
What to do about your result
Pulse pressure is one piece of the cardiovascular puzzle and should be interpreted alongside your full blood pressure reading and overall risk profile. If your pulse pressure is wide or narrow, the most useful step is to discuss your complete blood pressure pattern with a doctor, who can determine whether it reflects a concern. Managing blood pressure through a healthy diet, regular exercise, limiting salt and alcohol, not smoking and following any prescribed treatment all support healthier arteries.
Frequently Asked Questions
A normal pulse pressure is generally between 40 and 60 mmHg. Below 40 is considered narrow, and above 60 is considered wide. Pulse pressure tends to widen with age as arteries naturally stiffen.
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Sources & References
- 1.American Heart Association. Understanding Blood Pressure Readings.
- 2.Franklin SS, et al.. Pulse pressure as a predictor of cardiovascular disease risk. Hypertension.
- 3.Harvard Health Publishing. Pulse pressure: An indicator of heart health?
LifeCheckIQ content is based on peer-reviewed research, recognised clinical guidelines, and authoritative medical sources, and is reviewed by Deborah Adotso, General Nurse, for clinical accuracy.
Medical Disclaimer: This tool is for informational and educational purposes only. Results are not a medical diagnosis. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. In an emergency, call your local emergency number or visit the nearest hospital immediately.