NICE hypertension stages
| Stage | Clinic BP | ABPM or HBPM average |
|---|---|---|
| Stage 1 | 140/90 to 159/99 | 135/85 to 149/94 |
| Stage 2 | 160/100 or more | 150/95 or more |
| Severe | Systolic 180 or more, or diastolic 120 or more | – |
Confirming the diagnosis
If clinic BP is 140/90 or more, offer ambulatory monitoring (ABPM). Use home monitoring (HBPM) if ABPM is unsuitable.
Meanwhile check for target organ damage and assess cardiovascular risk with QRISK3.
Severe hypertension
Clinic BP of 180/120 or more needs assessment for target organ damage as soon as possible. Refer the same day if there is retinal haemorrhage, papilloedema or life-threatening symptoms.